The most classic motorcycle on the market, the Triumph Bonneville T120 proves to be an excellent means of travel and everyday use.
The 120 T can have numerous definitions: twin, like the two cylinders of the engine, to tour, for its qualities of comfort when travelling, but in our opinion it is the most appropriate timeless, because this bike has no age, it doesn't age, it makes you young again and amplifies the desire to travel.
Our experience has been more than positive, without going to see technical data and numbers, our exam is always and only based on driving and emotions, that's how it went!
At first sight the Bonneville remains unchanged like the charm of the British empire, with all the credentials to make those looking for a piece of history on two wheels fall in love with it, without giving up the benefits of technology. Two-tone metal tank, chrome friezes, like the twin exhausts and many other components. The black contrasts in the right places and the satin metal of the engine recalls the solidity of the construction, unchanged over time. The round but LED headlight, the two-seater bench saddle, the indicators and the rear lights complete the circle and satisfy the nostalgic and the younger ones in search of the old school look.
But appearances are deceiving, yes, because under this 100% British outfit there is a twin cylinder who really wants to be heard. The sound is well calibrated, it stands out but without annoying, the engine pushes at all revs, especially at low speeds, because that's where you have the most fun, from starting at the traffic lights to corner exits. Lots of torque and lots of ease of management, also thanks to the engine mapping and traction control. When traveling, nothing is missing, and the more you drive, the more you want to go far.
La motorcycle is manageable in all driving conditions and road surface, also thanks to the low saddle (when manoeuvring) and the low center of gravity that always makes us feel in control of the vehicle. It is easy to handle in the city, even between cobblestones and rails, it can be parked easily and it is easy to drive around even for two. Outside the city it behaves even better, both for driving pleasure and for performance: even if you don't feel like racing, when you open the gas some veins close anyway.
La cycling it is well researched and very balanced, perhaps too much. In my opinion, since the engine hides thatattitude from Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, I would have preferred a more sustained and less urban suspension set, but it is also true that those looking for a classic-looking racer can always opt for a Speed Twin or a Thruxton.
THEergonomics it is traditional, with the torso erect and the arms well extended but not loaded on the handlebars. Perhaps not too hospitable for longer riders, in terms of the position of the footpegs. Obviously there is no aerodynamic protection but those who want to travel can take a nice original windshield and set off without problems, also because on the motorway you travel very well with the cruise control set at 130 km/h.
For the speech bagagli it can be equipped with side bags, on the tank or on the saddle. If you surf through social networks you will discover many travelers who have decided to discover the world on the saddle of the Bonnevilles, loading them as if they were Tigers. The advantage of a classic motorcycle is also this, i.e. having a very accessible base for any type of modification and set-up, both in terms of accessories than customizations.
In conclusion few frills, lots of style and everything you need is there: the engine gives so many emotions and so much couple, the weight is not felt thanks to the saddle and center of gravity bassi, comfort it's good even after so many hours, the maneuverability and stability make it ideal for every use. So if you don't like modern and angular lines but don't want to give up the comforts of technology, you can't go wrong with the T120, and if you wanted to stop at the T100, give us a little thought about the upgrade, in my opinion it's worth it.
For all the information on the Bonneville T120 you can visit the Triumph official site.
In this test we used:
Helmet Scorpion Exo Tech Evo with flip-back system
Sw Motech PRO Rearbag and Legend Gear LT1 Black Edition bags
