TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120 (2016 - on) Review

Brakes are ok but you have to give them a handful when slowing from speed. You can ride comfortably for many miles. Fine with a small pillion, felt cramped with my slightly larger brother

My exhaust makes these bike sound awesome. It's not the fastest but I didn't buy it for that reason. It just purrs along nicely and pulls when you open her up, which is addictive. Best thing about the bike

I knew servicing would be expensive and so are parts, even aftermarket. 160-170 miles out of a tank though

Cruise control is very welcomed, though Triumph took the mick by replacing the centre stand, heated grips and grab rail for this whilst a higher price. I added all but the grab rail. I added Motone pannier rails and Tec lowered footpegs. I've also customised the seat with software foam and padded it out so it is slightly raised. Also added a Puig Windy screen

An absolute blast to ride, really good fun but I wouldn’t want to do more than a couple of hours on it at a time!!

The engine is a peach, the only thing I don’t like is how quiet it is!!

After the merest shower of rain, the engine casings fur up, equally the spokes and disk internals are quite rusty after a shower. This despite the bike being either covered or kept indoors. Not good for a 9 month old bike!!

It’s fine as it is in standard form.

For a 1200cc bike it needs a few more hp’s

Must admit I was surprised too. Seems a lot

Never had heated grips - love them.

Handles OK and I really like the way that it rides.

You feel the restrictive exhaust and first gear is too tall. Both issues that could be easily sorted.

Looks reasonably well built and polishes up well but has issues. The radiator was pebble-dashed the first time it was ridden in the rain as there is zero protection from the (perfectly aimed) road muck that flies off the front wheel. Bought new in September 2020, it was returned to the dealer in April 21 when it would not start. A dead ECU was diagnosed and this was replaced under warranty. Fast forward to April 22 and, again, the bike will not start. RAC technician indicated that the ECU may be the cause of the issue - again. (Due to V=COVID and other issues the bike had only covered around 100 miles between failures) No confirmation as to the cause of the problem this time as the dear cannot pick it up for ten days.

Cheap to run as it doesn't :-)

It is not the sport of bike you buy if you want something gadget-laden. The equipment is adequate and perfectly suited to the machine.

The stock seat remains comfortable from fill-up to fill-up. Suspension is just about right, but works better with an extra click of preload. The big heavy spoked wheels mean steering needs a little more effort, and it goes round corners rather than flicks. But why are Triumph still persisting with the Sportscomp tyres? Their rut-tracking nature makes them the bane of the modern classics. Although not having the instant grab of some, the brakes are easily up to the job - and grabbing a handful will pull the bike up very sharply. Clutch is light, and gears easily located.

The engine is characterful yet smooth; gutsy yet relaxed. The 270deg. twin has a pleasing rumble as it accelerates out of the lower revs, but is almost unnoticeable while cruising. 70mph is reached at just over 3000rpm in top. It can be a bit snatchy around town, but I found removing the intake snorkel made a massive difference. Opening the throttle to the full brings a surge of acceleration... as well as giving a completely different and addictive exhaust note.

I've had the bike about a year, and have had no issues in that time. The paint finish is right up there, as is the way it's put together. No complaints at all - other than the exhausts cover the rear spindle making it a real faff to adjust the chain - an oversight on the design rather than a quality issue...

It's not the cheapest retro to buy, but then you're getting a more premium product. With normal riding, I have easily achieved 70mpg - have fun and this will sink to 50mpg, and that is really good for an unfaired 1200cc motorcycle. Similarly, the style of machine means it attracts a low insurance premium.

It doesn't have all the latest lean-sensitive fripperies that we've been managing without for decades - what it does have stuff we'll actually use... like heated grips and centre stand (both of which are missing on the 2021 model.!) There are 2 subtle LCD panels in the clocks that give: fuel level and range; gear position; time or 2 sets of trip readings. A USB charge point is included under the seat (there's no room for anything else under there.!)

Brakes are fine but the ride quality is terrible. The original Pirelli tyres would track every lump, bump and white line and it was impossible to ride in a straight line. In the wet they were scary... rear end stepped out even at very slow speeds. I changed to Avon Roadmaster and things have improved but anything over 60 mph still worries me (except for major A roads).

Now we talk about something smooth and lovely. This is a great engine and gearbox in my opinion. I also own a BMW 1250GS and the T120 is much smoother.

All good so far but needs lots of TLC. Use a good chrome/metal cleaner and corrosion protection and all OK.

Good mph (about 62) and servicing is not outrageous.

Heated grips extras; fantastic.

My bike has had major electrical problems, including needing a new wiring harness at less than 10k miles. The indicators stopped working, the check engine light threw random errors and the heated handgrips stopped working.

Heated handgrips are nice when they work

The ride is notably more harsh than a modern day swingarm equipped motorcycle. The narrow front wheel in combination with the stock Pirelli Sports Comp have an unsettling tendency to follow grooves and tar snakes in the road (even though you get used to it quickly) , but are otherwise grippy enough on dry smooth road surfaces. Stock seat is not my friend, currently looking for alternatives, yet I regularly do four to five hour tour trips with it with little problem. Perhaps it is a safety feature to take a break more often? The brakes are ... okay, not the best in the market but okay. For my style of riding more than adequate.

Excellent engine with ample torque and more than enough oomph to try rip your arms off if you dare twist it too entousiastically. I get a comfy 56mpg or 4.2 liters per 100km out of it which is not bad for a 1199cc engine. The sweet spot is definitely between 2000 and 3000 rpm. No vibrations there, and a super awesome exhaust note. Mine has an x-pipe fitted. Awesome. Very smooth running engine, super light and comfy clutch and the gearbox is okay. In my country are plenty of fun and twisty 40mph country lanes and the Bonnie blubbers and brambles along in fourth gear at a relaxed 2000 rpm at those speeds. Drop a cog or two for safe overtaking and enjoy the big hearted roar coming out of the pea shooters.

As mentioned, the paintwork is excellent. I have the cinder red version, a metallic red finish and loads of chrome. The red has a mesmerizing depth to it and is perfect. The chrome however? The chrome exhaust jackets from the headers down are prone to become damaged by small dirt and pebbles thrown up by the front wheel and is hard to keep in good condition. Dry and clean after each wet ride is a must to prevent rust on the chromed parts. That said, my bike is five years old and still looks brand new.

Triumph as a premium brand means premium prices for parts and maintenance. No surprise there

Brilliantly understated modern electronics in retro disguise and metal housing. The dials look pleasently nostalgic yet secretly equipped with just enough info in LCD. Heated grips, what. Traction control, rain/dry driving mode, ABS. Nice.

Standard front folks need upgrading.

If I was assessing my 2016 machine I would have given 3 out of 5 as the brakes squealed and the suspension very disappointing. My recently purchased 2018 T120 however has great silent brakes and the suspension ( and by connection the handling) is much improved. Maybe I have just struck luck with the latest purchase.

The engine is a peach if you like loads of usable torque and enjoy riding a bike whose engine is totally aligned to modern road riding. The throttle can be a little jerky at low speed but this is minor niggle and only obvious when caught is very slow, stop/start traffic. On A roads and motorways the bike is very comfortable and its acceleration capabilities can surprise many other road users.

My first bike was a 2016 model purchase with 4k miles showing I rode it for an additional 6k miles with no issues and perfect reliability. There is lots of chrome and alloy and unless you actually enjoy cleaning your machine then expect the bike to lose its shine over time......but that goes for all bikes that are not covered in black paint.

I conducted all of the servicing on my previous Bonnie and intend to do the same with the new machine. Servicing is easy and I would only consider taking the bike to a dealer for valve clearances and throttle body adjustment if it was required. I prefer to purchase used machines to minimise depreciation so appreciate new machines need dealer servicing for warranty. The T120 is an expensive machine and personally think the new list price is too high but now difficult for Triumph to reduce the list price without upsetting too many customers and dealers. I would be interesting to have seen what the new price might have been back in 2016 if the Royal Enfield Interceptor has been available at the time.

Features are basic, you get two riding modes, Road and Rain but Rain is redundant except in the worst conditions. Traction control is fitted, as is ABS and these work well. Heated grips and centre stand are also useful features. Standard tyres wear well but you could do much better

Had major electrical problems, requiring wiring loom replacement and dashboard replacement, at 5000 miles.

Lovely bike to ride

Stunning, if didn't corrode badly.

Avoid due to poor selection of alloys and bad corrosion.

Not race spec but ideal for relaxed riding with a bit of fun when the roads encourage spirited riding

Superb torque and easily accessible performance.

No issues - some minor adjustments made at first service but faultless.

Services a bit pricey but economy is superb

Heated grips

Bike is at its best on general riding, including long stints on motorway - break normally comfortable at 2 hours or tank fill-up time. I have ridden across Europe and back in 2019, over Grossglockner Pass, through the Balkan States to North Macedonia, back through Hungary and across the Austrian Alps, which included a 3-mile diversion on a gravelled forest road when the main road was blocked by a landslide - the bike never missed a beat and was sure-footed with careful use of clutch and throttle, the high torque allowing 2nd and 3rd gears in negotiating hairpin bends across the rutted gravel... a touch hairy but doable!

Great flexibility - sufficient power and high torque allow relaxed riding in a variety of weather and road conditions throughout the year.

High quality paintwork - chrome and general finish is superb. No corrosion or part failure to date (68 plate and 7,700 miles).

Dealer servicing and attention to detail is of high quality. Running costs are low: mileage on touring and general use is 65 mile per gallon; one set of tyres at 7,700 miles since new in 2018.

The overall feel, appearance and usability coupled with a great classic bike exhaust sound. Original Pirelli tyres not brilliant - now changed to Metzeler Roadtec 01 for better wet weather riding. If riding long distance, get the large Touring screen. The bike (in black) looks much better with Triumph 4-bar chrome badge. Hepco & Becker Junior panniers are great.

Brakes are excellent. can't fault them. ( You only need them to stop anyway...) It is a perfect fit for me and my wife. Very comfortable. We rode from the Midlands (UK) to Czech Republic in one day 820 miles and although very happy to arrive, had very little bum or neck ache. However....I had fitted a screen...( Cheap Chinese one) which meant I could ride at high speed through Germany without distress. Without the screen, long distance rides at speed are too uncomfortable.

V twin like. Grunty, a bit grabby , I could never describe it as smooth!! But It is what I am used to and prefer. I was told by Dealer that it became more lumpy because I turn the engine off at the kill switch...and this confuses the engine management system. being used to older bikes ( BSA's etc ) but not entirely stupid I still raise my eyebrows at this. But, I love the way the engine has real guts and grunt and powers away! ( I will put a sidecar on it one day, and won't need to alter the gearing at all!)

In extreme wet weather, and extended rides the electrics have played up due to water getting in. That won't affect many people. I now simply keep it well protected now with WD40, and grease etc. I ride everyday, all through the year, it is my main transport. The casings get affected by salt etc, and rust does appear, because I can't start cleaning it every night! But by and large it is good quality, and in the winter I grease the thing up and it keeps it protected. The early model did have a variety of recalls, and wiring loom challenges, but they were all dealt with without fuss. Most reliable bike I ever owned.

Triumph Dealer Servicing is very expensive. Mine is now 4 and a half years old with 25,000 plus on the clock. But as the official servicing is at 10,000 miles it works out very cheap. Per mile it has been cheaper to run than many of my other bikes. Those that say it does only 50 mpg must be hammering the daylights out of it! It does 58mpg when I am heavy handed, 65mpg on average use, and I have often got 74mpg when going very gently. One day, for a laugh I got 81 mpg over a 90 mile run, bit you do have to concentrate to get that! As I intend to keep till I can no longer ride it will be the most I ever paid for a bike, but could well end up over the years being the one that cost the least per mile!

Little things like the petrol gauge, I love the fact that I can start off with it telling me I have 58 miles left, and 58 miles later it tells me I can still go another 45! The heated grips are essential for me, and in the winter give me another 100 miles in a day that I could not manage otherwise! Triumph accessories are overpriced. But I have a sump bash plate, and engine bars which I recommend . The Triumph rear rack is vastly overpriced and far far too small for serious use...so I adapted an old one from an older carb model Bonnie and that looks and works well.

suspension especially rear could do with less bounce and more compliance -----but its not desperate , i can still follow my buds along scottish roads at pace without drama. The initial lean in takes a deliberate push , but it holds lines just fine-----i haven't really challenged the lean angle yet without too much issue, I run out of skill and confidence well before the bike reaches its limits.----I may change to Hagons next year. Its comfy and i can do our usual 100 miles (each way) without noticing any discomfort. Brakes are good , no problems. surprisingly accomplished all round considering its supposed to be a cruiser.

can't really fault it------does what it says on the can . considerable torque -----gobbles gears and hits the limiter quickly if you push on. --interestingly, because of the torque and where it sits-----i can stay with the guys on overtakes despite them having a large power advantage at least on the roads we travel on. If i am to be picky -----another 10 hp would have been ideal.

mine was mint when I got it ---and I look after it , but the finish on the engine cases are a bit dull and mottled. The build quality is impressive and nothing has gone wrong in the 3000 (hard) miles so far.

thats a quote BUT its not due yet!! the service intervals are 10000miles . I will however change oil and filter come winter so thats about £60.

brilliant clocks, with fuel, gear position etc. great. The standard fitted heated grips are almost as good as the leading oxfords i had on previous bike. Its got a centre stand!! . I have the long haul screen which works well (visor up at 50mph) its worthwhile . I have the triumph leather panniers (now discontinued). these are also worthwhile. The original tyres were absolutely shocking! what were triumph thinking? they were actually dangerous----following white lines, and any road imperferctions., wet weather sent shivers up the spine on the few times I have been caught out, I now have Avon spirit s---that's the kit you need. Confidence inspiring in all conditions.

Handling is above average for this type of bike, in comparison to its predecessor the T100. The brakes look the business but lack bite they need a good hefty squeeze, the abs is not over intrusive but cuts in at the right moment. Love the heated grips and full stand.

Great torque, but to could do with another 15bhp. The engine is lazy but deceptive and doesn't sound like its working hard for the progress it makes. I have short open megaphones fitted which give off a great sound.

The paintwork has a good finish very deep shine. Could do with a couple of fake cables coming from the dummy carbs. The oil filter is a pain to get at for home servicing.

I do my own servicing which is cost saving I use fully synthetic oil, but as I mentioned the oil filter is not easy to get off because of being recessed. Insurance is low in comparison to other big bikes. Its easy on the tyres and chain.

I have a triumph screen fitted which is about a 100mm to short and buffets your helmet and creates quite a lot of wind noise I'm 5'10" so about average height. I think I'll fit a extender to the screen because when I duck down it makes a big difference.

brakes are ok for the performance and type of riding I do the seat is fine for up to a couple of hours without much shuffling. only ridden solo so far but plenty of room for a pillion - suspension could be a bit marginal for push on riding two up.

torquey and plenty of get up and go. sounds beautiful on the standard pipes which draw attention in a good way. responds well to handful of throttle as long as you use at least 2k.

Absolutely no issues whatever-i have had the bike from new and nothing to report....

servicing seems a bit expensive (main Triumph Dealer) but whilst its in warranty I will stick with it. I will probably do my own servicing once its out of guarantee. ecconomy is excellent high 60's and it has used only a very small amount of oil between services (100millilitres) chain has only needed adjusting once and I do clean and lube it regularly

there is enough in the way of extras as standard without unnecessary complication. the centre stand and heated grips are standout and should be standard on every bike really.

Brakes not as powerful as more sports oriented bikes but more than adequate for the laid back torque and style of riding the triumph encourages. No issues with comfort solo not had a pillion on yet but nothing to think there will be an issue there.

Very torquey but a little more shove top end would be nice. Very good economy and easy to ride

No issues whatever

Reasonable costs and loan bikes included which is very helpful.

OEM tyres a bit lacking in grip and confidence in the wet and tramlines a bit.

This is a perfect all rounder. I can ride for 2 hours without a break at motorway speeds. Pillion comfort is good.

Loads of torque.

3 years old & in perfect condition. 100% reliability.

Running costs are fairly low.

Heated grips.

Just a great all-rounder - much greater than the sum of its parts. Toured Spain and Portugal twice, once two-up which was great as we travel light.

Lovely motor, doesn't pull your arms off but just so entertaining to use.

Great build, still looks like new after 13,000 miles and nothing gone wrong

great fuel economy if you need it

I have not cluttered it up with accessories - simple is good. Standard tyres are fine - as the ends of the pegs will confirm.

The ride quality is fine, but this is not a sustained barn stormer. The rear shocks just are not up to task BUT thats not the purpose here. Country cruising at under 65mph, the bike is a charm. Also as stated the stock seat is awful.

The motor on this is sweet BUT IMO, the mufflers and cat need to go. They are overly restrictive. Since I changed (see above) the mill gets a 5.

So far, so good!

The bike has a 500 mile service then a 10000 mile service - sweet! MPGs are about 50 and insurance costs are low

Heated grips, center stand, traction control all standard- nice! Also as stated the mirrors just suck, they peer into your shoulders.

fited sports brake pads. i set the riding specs for my country road hacks.

used to lag a bit but the decat helped that breathe a bit better.

New electrical loom fitted after 3 years

i throw money at it. i value my bike big time.

I fitted loads ….. exhaust; Remus slips ons Fox rear shocks … graduated front springs... tail tidy …

The rear springs needed adjustment from soft to middle pre-load settings. The forks are built to a budget but for normal riding ar eadequate; if you ride ''with the boys'' you may wish to upgrade or buy a Thruxton. The front brakes are fine and couldn't be improved for the type of bike it is.The rear brake is adequate.

The 1200 engine is unhurried and relaxed; it's best on a run but can work well on a morning commute. It carries all it's weight low down and the engine is a masterpiece of design, despite being water cooled it appears to be an air cooled engine and the styling is sublime with , so far, a high quality and reliable build.

I'm too early into my ownership to comment; my machine is a 2016 model with 24,000 miles on it from the 1st owner. So I shall be ensuring it's well serviced and the 10,000 mile intervals seem attractive but I may have an oil change rather sooner.

On a run the bike can exceed 70 mpg. It will be normal to get into the high 60s mpg. So as a new owner I will monitor the the economy and make sure it gets maintained.

Original tyres don't inspire much confidence. All day comfort for two with original seat, Royale (K&Q) seat is not worth the money as it's not as comfortable as the standard seat.

Smooth, torquey and economical.

Only thing I was concerned about was the tubes tyres, would have preferred tubeless for ease of temp' repair.

Cheap insurance and 10K service intervals. Service indicator means a visit to a Triumph dealer though. Disappointed about that

USB plug is in a strange place hidden under the seat, could have been put in a more accessible place. Fit an X pipe and remove the cat, improves exhaust tone. Heated grips are super.

In real world terms , I really can't fault. If I was to be really picky, perhaps the front forks sometimes can get a little bouncy?

Just sublime.........

Although a little too soon to say in my case.......but with fuel consumption looking to be around 60mpg and 10000 mile service intervals, and a huge reputation for reliability........

Amazing , easy to access in the instruments, the best heated grips, decent headlight. It's a naked, so obviously no standard fairing luggage.

Longest run was 350miles through south Wales in seven hours with one stop for fuel. Brakes do their job. Never had a problem with Nissin

Sounds gorgeous, pulls away fine. Easy up to 95mph, never gone beyond in open Face helmet. Engine braking is a bit weak

Only complaint would be inner tubes, but guess that comes with spoked wheels

Service every 10,000miles. Averaging about 64mpg despite riding like I stole it for tank range of 190miles

Heated grips are good, not sure you need riding modes

Brakes are adequate, but could be sharper with floating discs rather than floating calipers. I'm told that changing the pads will produce an improvement.

The engine is great, but the gearing is too high. I fitted a Thruxton R 16 tooth front sprocket and now the bike pulls away sharper, speed limits don't sit between the gears any more and 6th gear is now more useable rather than an overdrive.

The bike has everything I want or need, but I have added a Dart flyscreen (excellent) and the Triumph oval mirrors to replace the standard long stalks.

able to spend a mean rate for a "fanch-ey" bike.

Acceleration is awesome

Just perfect

Expensive to buy new

Front brake harmonics are a real problem, brakes are adequate otherwise Have gone 6 hours on rough twisty roads with no problem

Torque is King

Front brakes squeal and have a harmonic just before stopping, drives me nuts!!! Dealer wont even fix it for me, common complaint i hear.

Do my own so far. Oil & filter costs thats all. had dealer do the $300 CDN first service though

heated grips are excellent, plus the standard stand Tires are a good choice so far wish you could easily disable the ABS and Traction control for dirt or gravel riding also have it remember your choices when you start the bike

Seat is 90 minutes good, for ride and pillion, tank is 2hours+ so get a taste for coffee. Ride is firm and either getting better or I'm getting used to it. Brakes are okay nothing better, Handling is peg scraping good. super stable and different to 17inch front wheel bikes BUT not a limitation.

Great sound, and torque up to 90 and dead after, but carries a pillion and offers super easy overtakes with high gear low rev roll on's. So so easy to use, light clutch, great gearbox. All gears super high, final drive is 37/17 against 42/16 for a ThruxtonR (normal Thruxton same a T120) so is very much a overdrive gear. Motor is very smooth for a twin below 4000, not bad above but noticeable. Runs down to 1500rpm with small throttle openings.

Great build, hidden cables, cast controls not pressed, easy to clean, however the left had engine cases is scuffed from my boots already - it's posh plastic.

Only first service so far

Brilliant, Pillion Grab rail, no need of a hugger, centre stand, radiator guard, USB charging point and heated grips all standard.

I am used to a BMW which doesn't dive under front end braking, this bike dips under heavy breaking but not enough to worry about. The comfort seat option has a type of memory foam infill which isn't suitable for long journeys.

Very smooth to 4,000 RPM after which slight vibration does set in but not enough to spoil an enjoyable ride. The BMW I had produced 110 bhp, this Triumph has 78, however because the triumph has so much torque the engine is better than the BMW and has less vibration.

Beautiful finish, could have provided some of the extras as options or included them in the mix, but hey its an extra revenue stream.

Excellent economy

Be prepared for long wait times for accessories such as Panniers and the King and Queen seat.

Super easy bike to operate, low seat, all day riding position, taut suspension (maybe too taut!). You have to plan your corners and don't expect to change your mind - like a old bike. Big wheel and 25 degree steering = slow steering. BUT get it right and it's very rewarding (pegs may suffer)

I've had singles, V twin Buell's, inline fours across and alone the frame, and a V4. This motor is the most satisfyingly to use. Sound with standard pipes is, to me, very pleasing! Torque is the new power? no screaming revs, a hard burble from the pipes and with a high gear roll on over take its like " did that car brake?" Running in was never this much fun

Only done 300miles .......

Don't know cost but intervals are 10K or annual.

it comes with all the stuff you used to have to add = grab rail, centre stand, heating grips, locking fuel cap and radiator guard no hugger needed also.