Really?? Triumph T120 Bonneville Review, should you really be buying one of these things?
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- Опубликовано: 23 окт 2023
- A quick high level review of the Triumph T120 riding in the coastal town of Los Cristianos in Tenerife. A wonderful bike to ride but is it a keeper? Should you buy a new one or a second hand one on the understanding that you would probably lose £5000 over the first three years on the price of a new one. A second hand one can be found for about £5500 and I would suspect this type of bike will have low mileage which is great. I would also expect the type of owner to look after this bike through their ownership, also good news. Could this be the bike for you?
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I bought one a couple of months ago and its lovely to ride. I have owned some more powerful bikes but every time I open the garage it makes me want to ride it. My wife absolutely loves it and always asking me for us go out together. It makes you feel really cool and isn't that what motorcycling all about?
Hi Rafik, many thanks for the comment. Cool....exactly!! That's what riding is about. The T120 is a great bike whatever your day's plan is. And unlike many bikes today, it's easy to mount for the pillion. If the wife wants to go out more, then it's an absoloute winner!!!!
I had the bobber nice bike , but then got the T120 changed the exhaust to 2 into 1 removed the cat and changed the front fork springs , its now 12kg lighter , I have had lots of bikes over the years this is the best one yet for a 68 year old . Great vid by the way .
Hi Michael, many thanks for the comment. Both the bobber and the T120 are superb. Interesting how you have dropped off 12Kg. The beauty about the retros is.........they are much easy to get your right leg over them. The Tiger that I have is like climbing a mountain 😆. Good to know you enjoyed the video, much appreciated 😄
I've had my 2017 T120 for 8 months now and I have to say it is an utterly fantastic machine and will be with me for a long time to come. It has just enough character to be interesting but still refined enough to never be annoying. It felt special from the first moment I sat on it and it still feels just as special today. I don't know where the idea of the bike being a garage queen comes from because mine gets used and I've put 5,000 miles on it in 8 months including a 1500mile tour in Scotland. It is a real do it all bike that is happy bimbling around a country lane and can equally sit at high speed on a motorway for hours. There is plenty of power and torque so overtakes are simple and safe with plenty left in reserve should you need it. It is a more expensive bike to buy new than some of the other retro classic styled bikes but it is a premium quality machine and the paint, coatings, plating and other fixings are fantastic quality so as long as you look after it well there's no reason why you can't get use of it all year. It draws a lot of attention wherever you go and often you'll find yourself surrounded by old fellas sharing their tales from back in the day. The sound is just incredible even with standard pipes on and the greatest thing of all is that even after 8 months I cannot ever walk away from it without looking back at it.
I bought one about 6 months ago. I love it. Perfect all rounder bike. Can’t wait until next spring to ride her again!
Hi Anthony, thanks for the comment. T120 is a great all rounder. And it's sort of back to basics with the analogue clocks which I love.
I’m thinking of buying one and you have sold me from your commentary. Good looking bike man. I have a z900RS and really enjoy it and just want to have a second bike. I really like the look of this bike. Thanks for the video.
Hey Brian, a good choice. You are going to love the T120. Completely different machine to the Z900 but both in the garage gives you the best of both worlds and personas. The Z900 for the hooligan in you 😆 (no job and probably stole the bike), and the T120 tells all that you are level headed rider (probably working on the medical fraternity, as a senior cardio consultant) 😆. Hope you found that funny 👍
I had one when I lived on Vancouver island, rode it all over the island and onto the mainland to Vancouver and beyond. It’s a fantastic machine. I’m currently in Scotland and have been looking at the Tiger but my heart is with a T120. Must be nice riding in the sun all the time. 👍
Hi Jer, I was there on a break so back in the UK now with the cold weather. However, I will be going back to Tenerife in the very near future and will be riding again 😄
I bought my T120 last spring. I can say hands down that this was the bike I've always wanted. I flirted a bit with dual sport bikes and big Adventure bikes but my Bonnie is the bike that stirs my soul.
I completely understand that one Sean 😆
Bought my used 2018 T120 at the onset of COVID with 3,000 miles on the clock and couldn't be happier. Coming from owning a few Ducati Monster's, I definitely appreciate (as do my knees and back) the ergonomics and more linear power. Love putting around town in rain mode, then clicking over to road and opening her up while in the twisties. Just a fantastic machine that does everything right. Unbeknownst to me (and the dealer), the previous owner fitted a full Öhlins suspension, so maybe I'm biased, but the handling is sublime. It's truly the best bike I've ever owned.
Hi Derek, it is a great bike. If you have seen my latest videos, I have now bought one. And, having only done 800 miles on it, it just seems to get better and better. And generates lots of looks from young and old, a good conversation starter. It is such an easy bike to ride (not unlike the T100/SE models) and I understand why there has been little change to the bike over the years. It just works 👍
T120 is pretty much my dream bike right now. Where I live (Hong Kong) they are expensive compared to other markets, and I would have to park outside. Currently on a Kawasaki Z650RS, which is a lovely fun bike, and is as expensive as I would leave parked outside all year round. If I move to somewhere that I can get inside or covered parking then perhaps I will look again at a T120.
US border is open. Hurry up. Just say you need asylum from a local gang and they'll let you in
Got a new 2023 t120 last spring. Great bike, haven't had any issues with it and no real complaints about it. Reminds me of my first bike, 1960 650, but soooo much better. -40° F last week so not much riding, come on spring!
rest assured Ralph, you have bought a great bike. This bike will do it all - including off road if needs must 😆
I’m thinking of getting one here in Sweden the price of a new T120 is 9500£ massive inflation today I have a speedmaster 865 efi which I love. I which you a lovely Christmas 🎅
Hi Simon, many thanks for the comment. The 865 is a great bike, however, the 120 has much more available power. Have a great Christmas yourself and to your family 🎄
Don’t worry about people wondering why you’re talking to yourself out loud. I do it all the time, even when I am making videos on my motorcycles for here on RUclips. and it comes through in my video.
can I ask what country you are in? I am just north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, and you mentioned some mountain i have not heard of yet? I love your riding video. I am now a subscriber. These are the kind of videos I make myself and the kind I watch when other people make videos without music, without graphics.. just the actual things you see and the actual sound of the machine..
thanks. I’ll be watching, and Commenting out loud to myself
Hi Jody, thanks for subscribing, much appreciated. I am from the UK however, this video is filmed on the island of Tenerife (as part of the Canary Islands (Canary (K9) - being the islands of the dogs)). So Tenerife - the mountain is Mount Teide. The Canary Islands are located on the west coast of Africa. To confuse things even further, the Canary Islands are Spanish and managed by the Spanish government. It's a thing from 200 years ago I guess.
Pittsburgh, wonderful! I was in Baltimore in the 1970's as a young kid. Tough place to be back in those days 😆. An English accent always brough attention from the girls, but also unwelcome attention from the boys 😆. They were the days 😄
Thanks for watching. There is more stuff coming in 2024 and this should be good fun. No political correctness in videos for 2024 😆
This day in age people see a camera setup and you talking to it they just figure content creator, it's not even a second thought to anyone these days.
I've had my T120 for a full riding season. Absolutely love the bike. Its just so easy to ride and enjoyable. Its all about the torque. I'm an older rider, I've had many bikes in my lifetime. But at 63 years of age this bike just tics all the boxes for me. It gets you back to the basics of motorcycling without all the complications of too much electronic intervention. It has just enough, the basics. Its comfortable, powerful, low seat height, and just puts a smile on my face everytime I ride it. I have no regrets with the purchase and I would do it again. With bags and a windshield and top case I can even do weekend touring on it. I have not had a single problem with it. The build quality and fit and finish of it is first rate. Im counting the days until springtime so I can get back on it again.
Hi Greg, I fine all Bonnevilles so flexible, with the T120 being the big daddy of the range. It's nothing less that a great bike. You can do anything on this bike, and I mean anything!
Last August I bought my Bonnie T120 black/matt, I'm your age, it's a pleasure just to see her. I'm preparing it for the spring and I would like to know what kind of windscreen you have mounted and what you recommend me. Thsnk u in advance. Dante from Germany.
I have a Madstad windshield. Works great and it's quick release if you want to take it off. It's adjustable to find the sweet spot to defeat wind buffeting.
@@user-vg3pg5yd7m Hi Dante. People often put the short screens on the T120. Whilst they look nice and cool, they are not particularly effective when touring. I would recommend a taller screen like the one in the link below:
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/394924774718?hash=item5bf359d53e:g:ikAAAOSwuRVlI9T6&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA4Ey7Pf85ZLe0LFTKw1rAJF5nkOOjJ%2Fcq26YMW6qlcWR9rhFl0VAZ053nW2BZvgcnOiFIQf2aMLDhw4gsXNvXIf2M6ReQk0AA1G636gOiXws9OBLAJVw3JS5isZ5SBg3bpsGH6RBLyw3ktEpZwVbbp9vKwZaWuaSikwAf8Zoa8GW1Mp5iTwfRVJlZrbhN6N%2BhizO8m2xZGA8vr9H9fJPu07URU%2Be19TDxIuaG16QEvHz4K%2FSuVDyN3poejk1A3j9JBsFQP86Y6fWks%2B7PI78upP2T5NzOmaS0gyQVTkt8nBSw%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8bO1sWiYw
Hope this helps and gives inspiration 👍
I have a hankering for one of these or the T100 haven't made my mind up yet I obviously need to test ride them interesting watch 👍
Hey Crumbly, many thanks for the comment. GO NOW!!!! TEST RIDE ONE NOW!!!! The T100 (and the SE) are wonderful. Great city bike and your can tour until the cows come home. You will love it. Also try the new BSA Gold Star and this will confirm the T100 is the way forward.
@@bankruptpensioner 👍gotta be done .
I bought mine about 2 months ago now. The power is just the right amount to give you the fizz whilst not turning you into a hooligan.
The bike looks great and holds up against anything else at a bike meet. My mate has a new Harley and despite the price disparity you wouldn't say this is any less of a bike both in terms of brand or quality. I also find the riding position spot on and I don't cramp up on it like I did on my interceptor. Negatives.... not many... the gearing low down is not great as it doesn't like going above 2nd gear until you're at 35mph. Added to this the throttle response is a little snatchy low down (I assume euro 5 to blame). Also standard mirrors aren't wide enough. I'll be seeking to improve both with sprocket changes, fuel enricher and bar end mirrors. Once done I think it will be perfect.
What ore can I say Tim 😆, your comment says it all 👍
I've been looking at the bonnevilles as the wife will ride pillion on that but won't get on the tiger 800 I have, have you ridden the T100 also?
Hi Alan, yes, I have riden the T100 - or more so, the SE. Both bikes are the same except the SE has alloy wheels and does not have the RPM clock. The T100 has spoked wheels and does have and RPM clock. The T100 is very easy for the rider and the pillion to mount the bike. I have a Tiger 900 and yes, it is difficult for the pillion to mount. The T100 is a great bike however, the first question to ask is how does the wife mount the tiger? The best way is the pillion uses the left foot on the pillion foot peg and steps up to the bike, probably steadying themselves with the left shoulder of the rider and the top box with the right hand.Then moves the right leg over the seat to the right side pillion foot peg. Adjusting the arms as one twists forward behind the rider. Try that first. Regardless, the T100 or the SE is a great bike for the pillion. So easy to mount. Visit your Triumph dealer and go for a test ride. I am sure you will find the T100 or SE a great fun bike for both the city and longer rides in the countryside. Hope this helps.
That's great thanks, I'll get her to try mounting that way but we are in our 50's and she's not as flexible as she once was 😆 I prefer the black engine on the T100 over the silver engine on the T120, I'll book a test ride on both and keep an eye on any deals.
@@alancox7572 sounds great :)
They look magnificent in chrome. The blacked out ones just look like a cheap fad to me. I don't remember seeing any 'blacked out' bikes in the 60s.
Hi Frank, yep, I understand what you mean. Chrome would give it that full retro look :)
Lots of folks like black out…actually too much fake chrome begins to look cheap.
Yeah, but those black pipes don't discolor which is nice.
I had one with with chrome, my next one will be black, it’s not a fad, just moving with the times.
@@Accurize2👍
I traded my '23 Speed Twin in on a '23 T120 and I can say that it was a good move for me. While I loved the power and torque of ST, the power and torque of the T120 is more than enough for the public roads and the riding comfort is so much more comforable on the T120, much better seat and more options for carrying capacity, let alone the more classic looks. Plus, the much taller gearing contributes to a more relaxing and enjoyable ride with the added bonus of better MPG. Being able to add a center stand for cleaning and maintenence is nice too.
Hi Foggy, it's a great bike and easy to ride. It's not overly heavy and gets all the looks that a retro brings. Easy on the fuel as well. I love them 😆
Seriously thinking about selling my GoldWing this spring and buying a new T-120. I have been to the dealership three times ‘just looking’ …. They are classically gorgeous.
I truly understand the appeal of the T120, great machine. Goldwing is great - why not have both 😆
@@bankruptpensioner …. The Wing is a fantastic machine but I am thinking of getting something with a smaller footprint. But I do realize that letting go of my Wing will be emotionally challenging. There will be a lot of Pro vs. Con analysis if I went that route. And yes, having a third bike might be an option as well. Very doable.
@@wingandhog I needed something with a smaller footprint, the wife was just too much so had to trade her in for a new bike 😆 (that's a joke 😆). Bikes are generally purchased with emotion. And this is absolutely fine. Letting go of something where many experiences were shared is difficult. Give the Wing to one of the kids maybe? Problem with kids today is their lack of interest in bikes. Very sad but fortunately, my two do like riding (a rare thing today). Go test ride a T120 and tell all what you think ❤
I’m on a BMW 1200GS and Husqvarna 701 now. I recently had back surgery and my balance is off, plus I’m 74. Been looking at the T120 as I need a lower bike so I went to the dealer and sat on one for the first time. I’m way more comfortable with the low seat. Not exactly sure what to do.
Hi Black Dog, many thanks for the comment. OK, my recommendation, get something where you are comfortable. No regard your bum and flat feet on the ground but more about your confidence. Having surgery is no easy thing and getting back into the swing can take time. Leaping on the GS is no easy feat when young and fit. The 701 is a tall bike as well. Whilst the T120 is low, you should also try the T100 or speed twin. The T100 is much lighter and this will keep you riding for a few more years. Even easier, try the new BSA Gold Star. I have just bought one (see my reviews) and its wonderful. So easy to ride. Let us know what you test and how it goes 👍
You need to do more than sit on one!! Triumph dealers are like BMW dealers here in the UK - test rides are easy. I took my T120 (with a touring screen) on a 2,000 mile trip to Scotland in 2022. I enjoyed it just as much as I would have done on my BMW as it is quite capable of grinding out the miles. 70 mph in 3,000 rpm in top - compare that with the GS! Just don't expect the ride to be as plush, but is fine on reasonable roads.
I ended up with a Royal Enfield Interceptor. I’ve only managed to ride short distances as it’s winter here. So far I’m happy.
@@johnbentall5105 great summary John 😄
@@BlackdogADV I am so envious Black Dog, the Interceptor looks a great ride. I love RE and think they will take over where the Japs will leave - due to such high prices for the Jap bikes
I’ve had two T120s. I agree, that if you are thinking of longer tours, with pillion and luggage, the T120 does it with ease. For me, these days I have a Speed Twin 900, which still has the qualities of a Bonneville, but meets my needs for local rides. The T100 should also be tried too as I hear it is slightly more agile that the T120. Cheers. 🇬🇧
Hi Pete, thanks for the vote of confidence. Check out my latest vid. I have thrown in the towel and bought a T120
thats my dream bike. one day!
Hi Kopi, don't wait too long 👍
first gear is a bit tall ! mine has done nearly 16,000 miles now a 2016 red and silver bought 2 years ago from a main dealer full service history, i have nearly doubled the milage easy bike to ride early models came with heated grips grab rail and center stand mine came with led indicators rad guard and fender extender .as well as enjoying riding the bike i also just like the way it looks recently fitted metzeler roadtec 01 tyres big improvement
Hi Richard, yes I noticed the tall first gear and this was more obvious with the pillion on the back. Fender extender - this is one of the signs of an owner who cares 👍
Lovely video! In so many ways the T120 is my dream bike but I have been really put off the idea by the reports of catastrophic gearbox failures. Stuart Fillingham's experiences are a case in point and you can follow his woeful saga on his channel. It's not just the fact that the gearboxes can fail suddenly (and sometimes dangerously) but it's more the after-sales/warranty issues that some people have experienced in trying to get it resolved that is even worse. I'd love to be reassured as in every other aspect, it's the bike for me and your beautiful example there just makes me want one even more.
Hi Joe, many thanks for the comment. The T120 is a great bike (I replied to the gearbox locking issue just now). I personally would not hesitate to get a T120. All I would do is care for it and I understand the fix is very cheap. Therefore, a small project over the winter months think prevention rather than cure. If you are in a position to go and get your dream bike, then I have no option but to tell you to ........ do something right now!!! There are a number on MarketPlace with differing prices. Tell us what you are going to do 😄
Has the gearbox/gear selector problem ever been sorted out on the bonneville models?
Hi Gillian, thanks for the comment. I didn't realise the gearboxes had any problems. This is interesting. I have had three 965 Bonneville's and of course, played around with the video T120. I have not experienced any problems gearbox related.
That's the burning issue which has so far stopped me from going for one. It's not just the fact that the gearboxes fail but it's more the after-sales.warranty issues that some people have experienced in trying to get it resolved that is even worse.
@@bikahjoeUK I have seen cases on forums of this issue and i understand the fix is cheap and easy however, I also understand that there are many T120s that do not have this problem. Could be a case of poor servicing or having the bike dropped on the left hand side impacting the gear selector. I have just read that a chap has taken his T120 to over 85k miles with no issues. I therefore conclude, this is a problem but the percentage of bikes that suffer this problem is small. Good servicing and just avoid dropping the bike on the left hand side - drop it on the right if you have a choice 😆
Have 10,000 miles on my T120 without a gearbox problem.
@@johnbentall5105 treat it with love, and it will ride for many years
Hi, does t100 & t120 come with tubed or tubeless tyres?
Hi Amit. Both bikes have tubed wheels. They are not tubeless. There are options to convert to tubeless however, not many owners convert as the benefits do not outweigh the costs and hassle…….on the understanding that most riders across the world never take their bike further than 20 miles from home, and, only use it on a Sunday etc. does this help?
@@bankruptpensioner thank much for your kind help. Not sure why my previous replies aren't delivered to you. Thanks again ❤️❤️
It’s a very expensive bike in the Netherlands. A second hand 2016 is around €9000,-
Hey Strutmut, you need to come get one from the UK and ride it back to the Netherlands 👍
Love to buy one ,are they reliable
Hi Stephen, I have had 5 Bonneville's, and all of them have been absolutely perfect. A liitle love and care, regular services, and a gentle wash will make them run forever 😄
Always wear your gear
You are right, always wear the appropriate gear :)
0:55 Mt Tidy? 😂
Today's Triumph has shim valve adjustment which is time consuming and expensive at a dealership. Not DIY friendly at all. Designed to make money for the dealers. Should have hydraulic valve adjustment and belt drive. The n all you have to do is change the fluids and filter. A job l do in my driveway in 30 minutes. Vintage British motorcycles are rebuidable forever ♾️. Reliable and dependable transportation when maintained properly. Today's motorcycles are a collection of government regulations on 2 wheels. Loaded with electronics waiting to have a expensive failure. People who sell their bikes deserve to take a financial hit for being disloyal to their bikes. I have had my Triumph Tr-6 with a hard tail and magneto for 40 years. I have had my Sportster for 25 years and 400,000 miles on the original engine and 37 back tires and 17 front ones and 3 belts in 25 years. I changed the fluids and filter in 30 minutes in my driveway. Simple and inexpensive to do. My daily drivers. Now retired l have all the time in the world. Hello from sunny 😎☀️ Florida USA.
Completely agree Frank, this is a way to make further revenue from an already sold vehicle. That said, most of the guys nowadays, they can't use a screw driver, so appear to be happy to pay crazy prices for a simple service and stupid prices for a shim check - crazy
@@bankruptpensioner l can maintain my bikes but none of them have shim under bucket valve adjustment where you have to take the camshafts out to check and adjust the valves. There is no excuse for not having hydraulic valve adjustment other than corporate greed. I also don't need GP levels of HP required GP levels of maintenance. Triumph owners whine about the big tune up that takes 5 hours of shop time to do. You end up paying more for servicing than what you paid for the bike.
Your review gives very little for a person like me who is just about to decide to make a purchase of the T120 or Kawasaki W800 or other nice retro bikes. It would be nice to get more essence. The word lovely has a great capacity of misinterpretation and bull..it. My friend once told me he had a lovely girlfriend. Guess what.I thought otherwise. I guess no Brit can do a proper review of the Triumph. Too much emotions too little facts.
Ahh, you want me to be theatrical 👍. How about I say that this is the coolest bike on the road and as a retro, it’s the king that parts waves when on the streets at sunset. This bike will undoubtedly change your life and how others will perceive you. It takes you to a place where no one comes close. I could say that, and it is true, however, lovely says everything and what we are talking about is perspective. If you are thinking of the W800 or the T120, then these machines are worlds apart. The T120 wins hands down. However, I will always say that the most authentic modern retro on the road today is the BSA Gold Star, but that’s my perspective. You need to ride both bikes and you will realise the distance between the T120 and W800. And, you will make the right choice for you because that is your perspective of what is lovely. You should be smiling right now. Go get the bike you love 👍 and hope this helps 🤪
Giday, yep, I have a 2017 T 120. sure the gears could go kaplunk but then you get it fixed. Alls well so far at 35,000 kms
whingey whiney poonses should stay away from bikes and use public transport if thry're frightened of break downs.
I am on your side Servant 😄
you drive on the video , no gloves ,no protec cloding
Hi Danny, thanks for the comment. Yes, sometimes not the smartest idea is it. I could write for hours defending just a TShirt and Jeans.........but I am not going to as .......it is not good. When I lived in Qatar, it was TShirts, shorts, and sandles. Fortunately, through loads of experience and riding sensibly, I have not come a cropper 😄.
Generally the British riders do set a great example when it comes to safety gears. I find some of the Americans can be a bit lax when it comes to setting a good example in their reviews. While the channel guys considers himself an outstanding rider, it’s another vehicle who could recklessly knock him off his bike.
Cheers.
@@johnmartin7158 To be fair John, you are right 👍
Hey man. You're chilled out but whyd you look sad? Love
Hi Preetam, 😄, I didn't realise I looked sad. Must be my old face and possibly wondering who on the street is watching/listening to me. I am still getting used to talking to a camera 😆. I will try to smile a little more in future videos 👍
@@bankruptpensioner Get used to the camera you beautiful man
@@preetamkumar9496 👍