2007 Triumph Bonneville

Changes for 2007:

A true roadster in every sense of the word, the Bonneville matches classic British style to 21st century technology. This pairing of authenticity with modernity has led the Bonneville to become an icon in its own right; world famous (and quintessentially British) designer Paul Smith has personally designed a signature series of Bonnies, with accessories to match. Triumph's own sixty8 range, which includes hand crafted laptop bags, iPod holders and a series of unique custom-painted tank covers, further enhances the Bonneville's status not only as a motorcycle but also as a cool style statement.

Taking many cues from Triumph's past - the original bike was first manufactured in 1959 - the Bonneville has found real relevance today thanks to riders looking for a simple, honest and useful machine that can be enjoyed to the full in standard form, or personalised and tailored to suit each individual rider's needs.

It's an easy-to-manage motorcycle, thanks to a low seat height of 775mm - 30.5 inches - and similarly low centre of gravity. The tubular steel double cradle frame and box-section swingarm are immensely strong while the relaxed steering geometry provides composure at speed as well as ensuring the Bonnie needs only light input at the handlebars. All riders - from those with little experience to those with lots - appreciate the Bonneville's excellent open road manners and also its agility in jammed city streets.

The Bonneville's air-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder engine offers a simple, timeless look with modern engineering techniques and, for 2007, gets a 75cc increase in cubic capacity to 865cc, for improved midrange torque. Both of the engine's pistons rise and fall together - via a 360° crankshaft firing interval - so the classic feel and character of a British twin-cylinder engine is retained, while twin balancer shafts provide modern-day civility and refinement.

Ninety percent of peak torque - a very healthy 71Nm (52ft.lbf) at 6000rpm - is maintained from around 2500rpm through to the redline providing smooth and effortless acceleration in any of the five gears. Twin electrically heated 36mm carburettors feed the engine and are fitted with throttle position sensors. A pair of 'peashooter' style silencers deal with exhaust gases and have a very traditional look, as does the triangular engine cover and left-hand side clutch casing.

The Bonneville's road holding, handling and stopping ability is crisp, composed and confidence inspiring. The braking set-up of single front 310mm disc and 255mm rear, both worked on by powerful twin-piston calipers offers sensitivity and control. Three paint options, Jet Black, Goodwood Green, and Aluminium Silver are available. The extra option of the black engine finish with the Jet Black paint scheme, the 'Bonneville Black', adds a subtle alternative.

The Bonneville's a stylish way to cover the urban landscape and equally at home blatting down a leafy country lane on a Sunday ride out. It has a lineage few models can match plus a tangible credibility, multiplied by interest from designers such as Paul Smith. All of which makes the Bonneville as relevant today as it's always been, perhaps even more so.

Colour Options:

Bonneville Specification: