What To Know
- The Speed Twin boasts a more comprehensive instrument cluster that includes a digital display with a gear indicator, fuel gauge, and trip computer.
- The Bonneville offers a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience, making it a great choice for both experienced and novice riders.
- The choice between the Triumph Bonneville and the Speed Twin ultimately depends on your individual preferences and riding style.
The world of motorcycling is a vast and diverse one, with every rider having their own unique preferences and tastes. However, there are certain bikes that transcend the boundaries of personal opinion and become legendary. Triumph’s Bonneville and Speed Twin are two such machines, each representing a different era of motorcycling history and offering a distinct riding experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we will pit the Triumph Bonneville against the Speed Twin, comparing and contrasting their features, performance, and overall character. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of which bike is right for your riding style and personality.
Design and Aesthetics
Triumph Bonneville
The Bonneville exudes classic charm with its timeless design that has remained largely unchanged since its inception in 1959. Its iconic silhouette, characterized by a teardrop fuel tank, twin peashooter exhausts, and spoked wheels, evokes a sense of nostalgia and timeless elegance. The Bonneville’s attention to detail is evident in its chrome accents, leather seat, and classic Triumph badging.
Triumph Speed Twin
The Speed Twin, on the other hand, presents a more modern and aggressive aesthetic. Its sleek lines, muscular stance, and blacked-out components give it a sporty and contemporary look. The bike features a sculpted fuel tank, upswept exhausts, and cast aluminum wheels, all of which contribute to its dynamic and assertive appearance.
Engine and Performance
Triumph Bonneville
The Bonneville is powered by a 900cc parallel-twin engine that produces 54 horsepower and 59 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its smooth and linear power delivery, providing a relaxed and predictable riding experience. The Bonneville’s low-end torque makes it a pleasure to ride around town, while its top-end power is ample for highway cruising.
Triumph Speed Twin
The Speed Twin boasts a more powerful 1200cc parallel-twin engine that generates 96 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque. This engine is more responsive and offers a wider powerband, making it more exciting to ride. The Speed Twin’s higher horsepower and torque allow for quicker acceleration and a more exhilarating riding experience.
Handling and Suspension
Triumph Bonneville
The Bonneville handles with the stability and predictability of a classic motorcycle. Its suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a plush ride that absorbs bumps and road imperfections. The bike’s low center of gravity and wide handlebars make it easy to maneuver at low speeds, while its longer wheelbase contributes to its stability at higher speeds.
Triumph Speed Twin
The Speed Twin offers a more agile and sporty handling experience. Its suspension is firmer, providing better feedback and control during spirited riding. The bike’s shorter wheelbase and narrower handlebars make it more flickable and responsive, allowing for more precise cornering.
Features and Technology
Triumph Bonneville
The Bonneville comes standard with a basic instrument cluster that includes a speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge. It also features a single-channel ABS system and traction control for added safety. The bike’s classic styling extends to its switchgear and controls, which are simple and intuitive to use.
Triumph Speed Twin
The Speed Twin boasts a more comprehensive instrument cluster that includes a digital display with a gear indicator, fuel gauge, and trip computer. It also features a more advanced traction control system that offers two modes: Road and Rain. The Speed Twin’s switchgear is more modern and ergonomic, providing a more user-friendly experience.
Price and Value
Triumph Bonneville
The Triumph Bonneville has an MSRP starting at $11,900. For this price, riders get a timeless classic motorcycle with a proven track record of reliability. The Bonneville offers a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience, making it a great choice for both experienced and novice riders.
Triumph Speed Twin
The Triumph Speed Twin has an MSRP starting at $13,400. This price reflects its more powerful engine, advanced features, and sportier handling. The Speed Twin is a more exhilarating ride, but it also comes with a higher price tag.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The choice between the Triumph Bonneville and the Speed Twin ultimately depends on your individual preferences and riding style. If you value classic styling, comfort, and a relaxed riding experience, the Bonneville is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more modern and sporty machine with greater performance, the Speed Twin is the way to go.
Embracing the Modern Classic
While the Triumph Bonneville and Speed Twin represent different eras of motorcycling, they both share a common bond: they are modern classics. These bikes combine the timeless appeal of classic design with the benefits of modern technology and performance. Whether you choose the Bonneville or the Speed Twin, you will be riding a motorcycle that embodies the essence of British motorcycling heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference in engine displacement between the Bonneville and Speed Twin?
The Bonneville has a 900cc engine, while the Speed Twin has a 1200cc engine.
2. Which bike is more powerful?
The Speed Twin is more powerful, with 96 horsepower compared to the Bonneville’s 54 horsepower.
3. Which bike is more comfortable to ride?
The Bonneville is more comfortable to ride, with a softer suspension and a more upright riding position.
4. Which bike handles better?
The Speed Twin handles better, with a more agile and sporty suspension and a shorter wheelbase.
5. Which bike is more expensive?
The Speed Twin is more expensive, with an MSRP starting at $13,400 compared to the Bonneville’s MSRP of $11,900.
