Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: bobrebos on March 08, 2020, 05:00:04 AM
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:drool: Sure seems like a nice bike! Anybody here have any experience with the new T120's, and any good review or?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2020-Triumph-Bonneville-T120/362863925759?hash=item547c6019ff%3Ag%3Aw50AAOSwubdeBhve&LH_ItemCondition=1000
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When the T120 first came out I was quite enamored with the them. I watched a lot of YouTube videos and read most everything I could find. By all accounts a fine motorcycle. I love the look of the bike!
The closest I have come to riding the T120 is the Speed Twin. The ST has the "high power" engine of the Thruxton, and is set up with more sporting wheel size and tires. It was a very nice bike to ride. A bike almost anyone would enjoy riding.
The day I test rode the Speed Twin I had ridden my Griso up and back to the dealer. My back to back comparo of the Speed Twin to the Griso is hands down I prefer the ---GRISO!!
(https://i.postimg.cc/VvBszdd5/IMG_E4669_(2).jpg) (https://postimg.cc/RJhxRC1z)
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For the money, I also always like the T120 "Bonneville Black"...like this one! :thumb: :cool: :wink:
(https://i.ibb.co/vjpwsZ6/Screen-Shot-2020-03-08-at-8-06-35-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/vjpwsZ6)
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I picked up this low mileage 2016 model in November 2019. So, I own one, but due to winter and salty roads closing in on NE Ohio a day or so after buying, no ride time yet. The GS is my go to bike until the roads are 100% clear of salt.
(https://i.ibb.co/Njs0W4L/My-new-to-me-T120.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Njs0W4L)
OTOH, my riding buddy, Tom, has owned and ridden his T120 since purchasing in spring of 2016. Loves the bike! I suspect he may see this thread and respond with his experience.
Bob
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The modern T120s certainly are beauties. The did a fine job of being true to the classic look.
My original paint 62 TR6SS with 5,000 miles.
(https://i.postimg.cc/66cHz4qB/TR6-SS-014-1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/MXcbpT1L)
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I'd rather buy a Royal Enfield 650 INT for about 1/2 the cost...
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The modern T120s certainly are beauties. The did a fine job of being true to the classic look.
My original paint 62 TR6SS with 5,000 miles.
(https://i.postimg.cc/66cHz4qB/TR6-SS-014-1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/MXcbpT1L)
Speaking of a beauty! Lovely TR6. I know the 1966 model had a single carb. Can't tell if yours has one or two. Not familiar with the "SS" version of the TR6. SS would indicate it may have been quicker than the TR6 (not SS.)
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Speaking of a beauty! Lovely TR6. I know the 1966 model had a single carb. Can't tell if yours has one or two. Not familiar with the "SS" version of the TR6. SS would indicate it may have been quicker than the TR6 (not SS.)
TR6's were always single carb. Bonnevilles has the dual.
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I'd rather buy a Royal Enfield 650 INT for about 1/2 the cost...
Hi, Charlie,
If I had been shopping the new bike market, I would've been heavily influenced by the new RE 650 twins. Lovely bikes. And at a really nice price point. But I wasn't shopping for a bike at all. I was pulling into the local BMW dealer for 3 quarts of oil and a filter, and couldn't take my eyes off the gleaming burgundy and silver T120. Probably a customer's bike. Nope! It had been traded in on a new R9T /5 model. Here's the deal ..... not the worst, not the best:
$7475.00 including the questionable 'doc' fees.
$ 505.00 Ohio Sales Tax (6.75%) collected at time of sale by dealer.
So for slightly under $8k, I was out the door with what looks like a brand new T120. Essentially it is, considering the odometer read just slightly over 1600 miles. and it came with the standard saddle and an upgraded Triumph saddle and flyscreen. Out of warranty, obviously.
Without negotiating, I imagine a new RE would have been roughly $6000 + a couple hundred for doc fee and freight, plus tax, for total of about $6600.00 out the door. As Pete R. would say "sort of chalk and cheese," a new 650 twin or a barely used 1200 twin.
OK, enough of this procrastination. A filthy garage is calling out for me to do some much needed cleanup!
Bob
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$7475.00 including the questionable 'doc' fees.
$ 505.00 Ohio Sales Tax (6.75%) collected at time of sale by dealer.
..... Without negotiating, I imagine a new RE would have been roughly $6000 + a couple hundred for doc fee and freight, plus tax, for total of about $6600.00 out the door.
Beautiful T120, Bob, congrats!
I'm sure the RE650 is a fun bike, they certainly look nice, but, I'd certainly buy a pre-owned T120 for $1k more over one.
If ever you decide to sell the T120 has already taken the initial depreciation hit, so, you're likely to recoup a lot more of your money.
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Beautiful T120, Bob, congrats!
I'm sure the RE650 is a fun bike, they certainly look nice, but, I'd certainly buy a pre-owned T120 for $1k more over one.
If ever you decide to sell the T120 has already taken the initial depreciation hit, so, you're likely to recoup a lot more of your money.
The depreciation thing was in the back of my mind, too.
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I have a 2017 and love it. Electric cruise control, heated grips, plus many accessories. I changed my front rotors to Brembos, rear shocks are Ikon, and NH Toga pipes.
I also have the Triumph panniers and windscreen when I travel. Very comfortable ride.
(https://i.ibb.co/HBqgzVY/t120-Rock-Store.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HBqgzVY)
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I have a 2017 and love it. Electric cruise control, heated grips, plus many accessories. I changed my front rotors to Brembos, rear shocks are Ikon, and NH Toga pipes.
I also have the Triumph panniers and windscreen when I travel. Very comfortable ride.
(https://i.ibb.co/HBqgzVY/t120-Rock-Store.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HBqgzVY)
Kirk, were you looking for a firmer or softer ride when you installed the Ikons? I traded the 2014 CB1100, but removed the Ikon shocks I'd installed, thinking they might be adaptable to the Bonnie. That's probably a one in a million shot in the dark. I had them sprung softer for the CB1100. I have an uninstalled set of bag mounts that will work with an unmolested set of small Givi E21 bags I've had for years. For light touring, I think they'll be fine. (Bet those Norman Hydes sound nice, too.)
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...
My original paint 62 TR6SS with 5,000 miles.
Original paint? Simply Amazing!!!
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Original paint? Simply Amazing!!!
I must admit it is!
(https://i.postimg.cc/PJzp02JB/IMG-5417-2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/rRswrGSJ)
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RE
(https://i.postimg.cc/YSf4FHGH/rear-view.png) (https://postimages.org/)
Tumpet.
(https://i.postimg.cc/KjrDkxvd/My-new-to-me-T120.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
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The REs are beautiful bikes. The BMW dealer in Aurora now has RE, mostly in a separate section of his store. The Triumph dealer in Warren OH has taken them on, too. At the moment, one dealer a pleasant 30-40 minute ride from home, the other within 15 minutes. Hope the brand goes well for them.
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The modern T120s certainly are beauties. The did a fine job of being true to the classic look.
My original paint 62 TR6SS with 5,000 miles.
(https://i.postimg.cc/66cHz4qB/TR6-SS-014-1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/MXcbpT1L)
Nice! :thumb:
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The T120 (and 1200S and R100GS) have a slightly cleaner home. Spent 3-4 hours moving them out of the garage and doing my best to sweep a year's worth of leaves and other litter than had blown in over the past 12 months. Still a lot to do.
Tomorrow though, no guilt feelings about jumping on the GS and going out for the day. It's been months!
Below .....
a. Bikes in driveway while lazy ass owner cleans up the 'stable.'
b. The Italian, the German, and the Brit.
c. Before and after. I can see the difference even if you can't!
(https://i.ibb.co/bLgM5cg/IMG-3285.jpg) (https://ibb.co/bLgM5cg)
(https://i.ibb.co/KxSd3nR/IMG-3286.jpg) (https://ibb.co/KxSd3nR)
(https://i.ibb.co/Ms6ThD2/IMG-3287.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Ms6ThD2)
(https://i.ibb.co/qdtzNZ9/IMG-3288.jpg) (https://ibb.co/qdtzNZ9)
(https://i.ibb.co/HqqpPfr/IMG-3289.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HqqpPfr)
(https://i.ibb.co/Q9Mwrr0/IMG-3290.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Q9Mwrr0)
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The T120 (and 1200S and R100GS) have a slightly cleaner home. Spent 3-4 hours moving them out of the garage and doing my best to sweep a year's worth of leaves and other litter than had blown in over the past 12 months. Still a lot to do.
Tomorrow though, no guilt feelings about jumping on the GS and going out for the day. It's been months!
Below .....
a. Bikes in driveway while lazy ass owner cleans up the 'stable.'
b. The Italian, the German, and the Brit.
c. Before and after. I can see the difference even if you can't!
(https://i.ibb.co/bLgM5cg/IMG-3285.jpg) (https://ibb.co/bLgM5cg)
(https://i.ibb.co/KxSd3nR/IMG-3286.jpg) (https://ibb.co/KxSd3nR)
(https://i.ibb.co/Ms6ThD2/IMG-3287.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Ms6ThD2)
(https://i.ibb.co/qdtzNZ9/IMG-3288.jpg) (https://ibb.co/qdtzNZ9)
(https://i.ibb.co/HqqpPfr/IMG-3289.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HqqpPfr)
(https://i.ibb.co/Q9Mwrr0/IMG-3290.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Q9Mwrr0)
Nice bikes and I see the difference in the garage. Reason Im looking at a T120 is Im thinking due to age (and health issues lately) of getting rid of my heavier stelvio and Gold Wing, and going with a lighter bike. Im looking at V-9's, V-7's and a Triumph T120 so far. Just in the thinking mode and havent decided for sure yet. There are too many nice bikes to chose from now days!
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To the OP: I've had my T120 for almost 4 years now and it really is a nice bike and much better than my '08 T100 in every way. However, the price new is very stiff, today a nice used one can be had for 2/3's or less than new. If the RE650 had been available in 2016 when I got my T120, I would have bit and probably bought one. I've thought about adding an RE twin to my two Triumphs, but didn't think it would live up to how either of my bikes perform. A nice used air cooled or water cooled T100 would be nice bikes to consider. A new T120 is just a bit to expensive for a Guzzi guy...but I did it anyway in 2016 - thinking that this one could maybe be my last new bike...so what the hell...you can't take it with you. Good luck sniffing around for a next bike, it is fun to be on the hunt...
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To the OP: I've had my T120 for almost 4 years now and it really is a nice bike and much better than my '08 T100 in every way. However, the price new is very stiff, today a nice used one can be had for 2/3's or less than new. If the RE650 had been available in 2016 when I got my T120, I would have bit and probably bought one. I've thought about adding an RE twin to my two Triumphs, but didn't think it would live up to how either of my bikes perform. A nice used air cooled or water cooled T100 would be nice bikes to consider. A new T120 is just a bit to expensive for a Guzzi guy...but I did it anyway in 2016 - thinking that this one could maybe be my last new bike...so what the hell...you can't take it with you. Good luck sniffing around for a next bike, it is fun to be on the hunt...
Thank You. I will also look at used T120's. Gotta find a good deal (Guzzi Content)! :thumb:
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Caption Obvious says: 1200 way more power than 650.
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:drool:
https://www.cycletrader.com/listing/2017-Triumph-BONNEVILLE-T120-5011709237
https://www.cycletrader.com/listing/2019-Royal-Enfield-Continental-GT-650-5007633333
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Another happy T120 owner here!
(https://i.ibb.co/tqXqBgr/IMG-0867-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tqXqBgr)
A new 2018 leftover for a little more than a used one:
https://www.nationalpowersports.net/itemdetails.cshtml?itemid=48608
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I love those bikes!
Had a ’69 Bonny that leaked and had crap electronics but I still loved her.
I am such a no chain snob now though that I just can't see owning one.
Enjoy!
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So how hard is it to get at the valves for adjustment? How often. I've herd negative reports about Triumph service coasts.
Mighty pretty bikes.
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So how hard is it to get at the valves for adjustment? How often. I've herd negative reports about Triumph service coasts.
Mighty pretty bikes.
Doesn't appear to be too difficult, in looking over some comments from the TriumphRat forum. Unlike predecessor (2001 - 2015) that were DOHC, the T120 is a SOHC design with rocker arms. Appears the shim changes would be less time consuming than getting to them. Recommended interval: 20,000 miles.
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Kirk, were you looking for a firmer or softer ride when you installed the Ikons? I traded the 2014 CB1100, but removed the Ikon shocks I'd installed, thinking they might be adaptable to the Bonnie. That's probably a one in a million shot in the dark. I had them sprung softer for the CB1100. I have an uninstalled set of bag mounts that will work with an unmolested set of small Givi E21 bags I've had for years. For light touring, I think they'll be fine. (Bet those Norman Hydes sound nice, too.)
Ohlins shocks from Thruxton R's show on eBay occasionally for about $500-$550 -- likely from salvage bikes.
I bought a pair to adapt to my V7 Racer, then sold them when a pair specifically for the V7 became available.
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Not a new T120, but a 2004 Triumph America 790 I bought 8 years ago with 30K miles on it for $3K. Had ridden dirt bikes but not ridden on the road for 30 years and just had the bug to do it again. A good solo bike and quite comfortable with a Corbin seat and backrest. Still carburettered in 04 and a little cold natured, but a smooth ride and images in the mirrors are rock steady - unlike my 96 Cali. I bought the Cali half a year ago and the two have very different personalities and each is usually the only one in a sea of HDs wherever I ride around here. I agree that the new T120s are truer to the style of the old Bonnies, but I've grown to like the feel of riding IN the cruiser style America (once my feet learned where to find the pegs) and I feel a little like a jockey perched ON the Cali.
(https://i.ibb.co/VCQNFT3/Pea-Ridge-Park-1-5-20-5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VCQNFT3)
(https://i.ibb.co/ySRjrHp/1-1-2020-Pea-Ridge-Park-2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ySRjrHp)
upload (https://imgbb.com/)
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I personally can't get past the radiators on these things. To my mind, these are supposed to be light, air-cooled bikes, so the radiator just bugs me. Seems "wrong" somehow.
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I decided to change the coolant on theV7 today. 4 whiskey drinks in and I can't find the drain plug!
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I personally can't get past the radiators on these things. To my mind, these are supposed to be light, air-cooled bikes, so the radiator just bugs me. Seems "wrong" somehow.
I went that dilemma also. The T120 has the smallest radiator I've seen. I also went from an air cooled Porsche to a water cooled one.
Do you know why so many manufactures are going to liquid cooled?
No I don't like the looks, but the T120 hides it pretty well.
Jay doesn't buy many new motorcycles, but he really liked this:
(https://i.ibb.co/rdTNZR8/JayT120.jpg) (https://ibb.co/rdTNZR8)
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Another happy T120 owner here!
(https://i.ibb.co/tqXqBgr/IMG-0867-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tqXqBgr)
A new 2018 leftover for a little more than a used one:
https://www.nationalpowersports.net/itemdetails.cshtml?itemid=48608
Thanks....More expensive (2020) but I like the blue for some reason but black with brown seat is nice too.
https://www.nationalpowersports.net/itemdetails.cshtml?itemid=48212
And I gotta include this possibility;
https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=KMvjingx&id=EC9B39797C5CC3734006445A8A4B9FBBD729CA65&thid=OIP.KMvjingxsFYphTa37UH0EwHaEq&mediaurl=http%3a%2f%2fgearopen.com%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2019%2f03%2f2020-moto-guzzi-v7-iii-racer-limited-edition-1.jpg&exph=1080&expw=1714&q=2020+moto+guzzi+v7+racer+pictures&simid=608042290617582824&selectedIndex=0&ajaxhist=0
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Bought an '18 T120 in '18 fm the worst dealer in my 56 years riding (in Reno.) bUT the bike has been wonderful to ride since coming off 700-900 lb bikes. At 10K (I have another ride an '03 Cali III w/ Friendship sidecar. Good for Fl roads also) now after riding Canada fm Manitoba west to the Pacific, down the PCH, thru Death Valley & many of the desolate western roads. Lived on the Lonliest Hwy in the desert.
The easiest bike to ride since my K75's. Wish it didn't have a chain but it's a small price to pay for such an easy, powerful (enough) bike to ride. I live in Silver Spr, Fl now so it'll be back to the coast roads & the incredible Appalachians that I rode for 40 yrs. The T120 will feel great.
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Not a new T120, but a 2004 Triumph America 790 I bought 8 years ago with 30K miles on it for $3K. Had ridden dirt bikes but not ridden on the road for 30 years and just had the bug to do it again. A good solo bike and quite comfortable with a Corbin seat and backrest. Still carburettered in 04 and a little cold natured, but a smooth ride and images in the mirrors are rock steady - unlike my 96 Cali. I bought the Cali half a year ago and the two have very different personalities and each is usually the only one in a sea of HDs wherever I ride around here. I agree that the new T120s are truer to the style of the old Bonnies, but I've grown to like the feel of riding IN the cruiser style America (once my feet learned where to find the pegs) and I feel a little like a jockey perched ON the Cali.
(https://i.ibb.co/VCQNFT3/Pea-Ridge-Park-1-5-20-5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VCQNFT3)
(https://i.ibb.co/ySRjrHp/1-1-2020-Pea-Ridge-Park-2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ySRjrHp)
upload (https://imgbb.com/)
Nice America!
I really enjoyed my 2003 T100 Centennial Edition. When you mentioned 'cold natured' that seemed to be a common issue with the carbureted bikes. I rejetted mine shortly after purchase, and got rid of a flat spot that was really annoying while accelerating. No issues starting down to, say, 45-50F, but when I needed to start it when in the low thirties, hitting both carbs and intake runners for several seconds with a hair dryer saved a lot of wear and tear on the starter motor.
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I'd rather buy a Royal Enfield 650 INT for about 1/2 the cost...
:thumb:
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I personally can't get past the radiators on these things. To my mind, these are supposed to be light, air-cooled bikes, so the radiator just bugs me. Seems "wrong" somehow.
Me too!! Until I pass I will not part with my 03 Bonny bought new.
(https://i.ibb.co/K53zsp0/DSCN0401.jpg) (https://ibb.co/K53zsp0)
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Bought an '18 T120 in '18 fm the worst dealer in my 56 years riding (in Reno.) bUT the bike has been wonderful to ride since coming off 700-900 lb bikes. At 10K (I have another ride an '03 Cali III w/ Friendship sidecar. Good for Fl roads also) now after riding Canada fm Manitoba west to the Pacific, down the PCH, thru Death Valley & many of the desolate western roads. Lived on the Lonliest Hwy in the desert.
The easiest bike to ride since my K75's. Wish it didn't have a chain but it's a small price to pay for such an easy, powerful (enough) bike to ride. I live in Silver Spr, Fl now so it'll be back to the coast roads & the incredible Appalachians that I rode for 40 yrs. The T120 will feel great.
:thumb:
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This Royal Enfield, Classic 500 Chrome or the int650 in glitter and dust; one of them might be my next bike....
https://www.royalenfield.com/us/en/motorcycles/classic-models/classic-chrome/
https://www.americasmotorsportsnashville.com/inventory/v1/Current/Royal-Enfield/2020-Int650/Glitter-and-Dust--Nashville-Tennessee---13840161
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Bobrebos,
Based on these two bikes being close in price to each other, I think I know which way I'd go. However, a lot of that would depend on where you like to ride.
Bob
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Bobrebos,
Based on these two bikes being close in price to each other, I think I know which way I'd go. However, a lot of that would depend on where you like to ride.
Bob
Im leaning toward the 650....
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Im leaning toward the 650....
You'll love it. I have about 3k miles on my Interceptor and has been absolutely flawless thus far:
(https://i.ibb.co/WK6bfJY/IMG-20200107-150959-1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WK6bfJY)
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Im leaning toward the 650....
We'd both be leaning in the same direction. Ride reports have been very positive. I've always thought a new Bullet 500 would be fun if I lived next door to something like the Blue Ridge Pkwy ...... 400+ miles of twisty 45mph road. Or if I confined myself to our Cuyahoga National Park. However, as a lightweight all rounder with, what ? 45hp, I'd be more inclined to go with the twin. They are making a hard push for the US market. There's two multi-brand dealers (BMW/Enfield, and Triumph/Enfield) one 15 minutes away, the other 35-40 minutes. Not sure if RE dealers offer demo rides.
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(https://i.ibb.co/y0LLZRb/20160525-165151.jpg) (https://ibb.co/y0LLZRb)
great bike purchased new 2016 when they came out.
my only complaint you have to take off the left muffler to slide the rear axle out to remove the rear wheel.
also hard to adjust chain as the adjustment nut is tough to get at, I modified some cheap wrenches to fit
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I need to order a Service Manual for the T120. I don't think Triumph offers one, but I recall that Haynes has written one. Thanks for advising about the muffler removal and possible need for some modified wrenches for the chain adjustment.
Bob
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(https://i.ibb.co/y0LLZRb/20160525-165151.jpg) (https://ibb.co/y0LLZRb)
great bike purchased new 2016 when they came out.
my only complaint you have to take off the left muffler to slide the rear axle out to remove the rear wheel.
also hard to adjust chain as the adjustment nut is tough to get at, I modified some cheap wrenches to fit
Not easier to drop the rear fork/undo the shocks to get the axle & wheel out???
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I think you would really enjoy the 650
(https://i.ibb.co/LY97jT8/EF2449-F4-0-C24-4-E6-F-8-D86-1-C30-C8-F8-DAC4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LY97jT8)
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I think you would really enjoy the 650
(https://i.ibb.co/LY97jT8/EF2449-F4-0-C24-4-E6-F-8-D86-1-C30-C8-F8-DAC4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LY97jT8)
She's a beauty! "Suddenly it's 1960!" Going back in time. But with 2020 technology.
I remember as a kid seeing the Chrysler Corp. commercials for their late 1950s cars being touted as 'suddenly its 1960.' Back then, it was a jump to the future.
Found it! With Google, all things are possible: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hadDgi9Ysno
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I think you would really enjoy the 650
(https://i.ibb.co/LY97jT8/EF2449-F4-0-C24-4-E6-F-8-D86-1-C30-C8-F8-DAC4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LY97jT8)
That's a nice bike! :thumb:
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I think you would enjoy the T120 more :thumb: Think power, quality , and proven reliability ....oh and the Speed Twin is a lovely bike albeit more expensive.
https://www.returnofthecaferacers.com/ride-review/triumph-speed-twin/
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I bought a 2020 T120 Diamond last July. Absolutely love the bike. Over 6000km so far and no issues.
My gripes - the OEM Pirellis are garbage - see if you can get the dealer to put some better skins on. The stock suspension is way too soft - some stiffer fork springs will help (I have a set of Racetech springs in the garage waiting for spring). I upped the rear preload to one click from the top and that helped, but the front is still too mushy.
The Bonnie has the 'High Torque' motor (80-ish RWHP) and kinda runs out of nuts early in the RPM band. But when you check the speedo and see how fast you're going, it doesn't seem to matter anymore. I drive mine like a 5 speed and have only bumped it into 6th when I am exceeding 140kph (80mph). If you are buying new - go for the V&H Torpedo replicas without the DB reducers....they have a nice mellow exhaust note that harshens up when working the throttle hard.
Join the Triumph RAT web board and read up.
And by the way, with the purchase of the Triumph my '08 CalVin is up for sale...PM me if anyone is interested.
Cheers!
G
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My Triumph buddy Dwight stopped by yesterday on his 2002 Bonneville America., (800cc).
He has it set up as a cruiser, and it is a nice bike! :thumb: :cool: :wink: :smiley:
(https://i.ibb.co/tQTqH6p/IMG-E1075.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tQTqH6p)
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My Triumph buddy Dwight stopped by yesterday on his 2002 Bonneville America., (800cc).
He has it set up as a cruiser, and it is a nice bike! :thumb: :cool: :wink: :smiley:
(https://i.ibb.co/tQTqH6p/IMG-E1075.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tQTqH6p)
I've always liked the looks of that bike. If it had been shaft or belt drive I might have bought one. So many cruisers out there with belt or shaft drive to choose from.
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And idle mind is the devil's playground.
I have been checking out this T120 Diamond Edition. I am not a big fan of the extra chrome, but really like the paint.
(https://i.postimg.cc/ht3p37cq/Bonneville-T120-Diamond-3-1920x1080.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/WdgGdzd9)
(https://i.postimg.cc/NG1CfM71/4-bar-badge-1920x1080.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/NLjkdQnM)
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When the T120 first came out I was quite enamored with the them. I watched a lot of YouTube videos and read most everything I could find. By all accounts a fine motorcycle. I love the look of the bike!
The closest I have come to riding the T120 is the Speed Twin. The ST has the "high power" engine of the Thruxton, and is set up with more sporting wheel size and tires. It was a very nice bike to ride. A bike almost anyone would enjoy riding.
The day I test rode the Speed Twin I had ridden my Griso up and back to the dealer. My back to back comparo of the Speed Twin to the Griso is hands down I prefer the ---GRISO!!
(https://i.postimg.cc/VvBszdd5/IMG_E4669_(2).jpg) (https://postimg.cc/RJhxRC1z)
AND why do you prefer the Griso 1200 I am curious ......
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AND why do you prefer the Griso 1200 I am curious ......
There will always be the underlying fact that I just love Moto Guzzis ever since my first ride on a V7 Sport many years ago.
But trying to be rational, I prefer the power delivery and sound of my well sorted Griso over the Speed Twin. I only had a 25 mile test ride on the Speed Twin, but it seemed a bit boring to me after just getting off of my Griso. The presence of the Griso from the cockpit is also much more impressive. The Speed Twin has less of that undefinable aura and character that the Griso has in spades. Although I was quite impressed with the Speed Twin and would love to own one if I had a much bigger garage, I wouldn't trade the Griso to get one.
To me the Speed Twin is more in the same category as the Griso than the T120. Both are not pretending to be all out sport bikes, but are taking their design limitations to the sporty side as much as possible. Therefore if I could have only one of the 2 I would pick the Griso every time.
The the T120 stands apart a because it isn't trying to be anything other than a very competent retro classic. I could see myself owning a Griso and a T120 at the same time, but not a Speed Twin and Griso at the same time.
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:thumb: thank you .... Hard to beat a sorted Griso
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Congrats....You won't be sorry. Tons of aftermarket support as well.
Here is my 2001 (first year new Hinckley Bonneville).
(https://i.ibb.co/z8TrmZP/20190819-091447.jpg) (https://ibb.co/z8TrmZP)
upload (https://imgbb.com/)
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I personally can't get past the radiators on these things. To my mind, these are supposed to be light, air-cooled bikes, so the radiator just bugs me. Seems "wrong" somehow.
I'm with you. Nobody does a prettier modern retro classic than Triumph and nobody does the water-cooled more tastefully (as opposed to, for example, a Kawasaki Z900RS) than Triumph. But I still can't go there. I will be happy with my 2013 Scrambler and my 2016 T100.
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I agree, Triumph has designed some beautiful retro classics. None better out there than the "new" T120 in my opinion.
I just watched a 40,000 mile YouTube review of a 2018 T120. Of course there were some issues. The most annoying was nagging coolant leaks, with one serious 6th gear transmission failure. The reviewer reporting on his routine chain maintenance, sprocket and chain replacements kind of shook me back to reality. I am spoiled by the fact that all the bikes I ride regularly are shaft drive, with a belt drive thrown in for good measure.
I still think the T120 really looks great, except for the radiator which is just barely tolerable.
(https://i.postimg.cc/DzJBVyw4/Triumph-T120-Diamond.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Y471Y7gt)
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I agree, Triumph has designed some beautiful retro classics. None better out there than the "new" T120 in my opinion.
I just watched a 40,000 mile YouTube review of a 2018 T120. Of course there were some issues. The most annoying was nagging coolant leaks, with one serious 6th gear transmission failure. The reviewer reporting on his routine chain maintenance, sprocket and chain replacements kind of shook me back to reality. I am spoiled by the fact that all the bikes I ride regularly are shaft drive, with a belt drive thrown in for good measure.
I still think the T120 really looks great, except for the radiator which is just barely tolerable.
(https://i.postimg.cc/DzJBVyw4/Triumph-T120-Diamond.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Y471Y7gt)
Yep, the radiator isn't a thing of beauty, but better than many. The oil cooler on the previous gen of 'new' Bonnevilles wasn't exactly lovely, either. But overall, nice bikes.
As a previous owner of a GRiSO 8vSE, I get it when you mention 'excitement' differences between the two bikes. I only wish my 2012 Griso had come with more compliant suspension. And had been a few hundred serial numbers newer to get into the rollered bikes.
The T120 has some good low end torque, but the 1200 GRiSO definitely had some real umph when rolled on.
My Tenni Green was the best looking bike I'd ever owned. And was exciting to ride.
But at my age (77) I think the ergonomics and suspension of the T120 and I are much better suited to each other. And the T120's performance is more than adequate for me at this stage of life. Hell, I still think the R100GS roll on in third gear isn't bad! That's a bad sign!
Well, if things improve through the upcoming months where we can get out and put some real miles on the bikes, we'll have some better ride reports.
Bob
BTW - have you checked out how Triumph hid the cat converter on the T120? Damn clever, IMO.
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But at my age (77) I think the ergonomics and suspension of the T120 and I are much better suited to each other. And the T120's performance is more than adequate for me at this stage of life. Hell, I still think the R100GS roll on in third gear isn't bad! That's a bad sign!
Well, if things improve through the upcoming months where we can get out and put some real miles on the bikes, we'll have some better ride reports.
Bob
BTW - have you checked out how Triumph hid the cat converter on the T120? Damn clever, IMO.
Bob, you have 10 years on me. I have noticed in the last couple years I am not quite as focused on just how fast I can hustle through the twisties, and have started to slow down just a tad and am enjoying the ride. Maybe part of that is knowing a get off will be more difficult to heal up from. Not sure, but I am not fighting this progression.
Yes, I did notice how well Triumph hid the Cat. I also noticed that the most popular owner mod seems to be ripping it out and replacing it with an X pipe of some sort. :grin:
I haven't shelved the idea of getting a T120. I can get a leftover 2018 for about 4k less than the 2020 Diamond Edition. If I make the jump I will go with the cheaper leftover. That is quite a bit to save.
(https://i.postimg.cc/63CKcqzf/T120-1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/CBM9LF3R)
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Bob, you have 10 years on me. I have noticed in the last couple years I am not quite as focused on just how fast I can hustle through the twisties, and have started to slow down just a tad and am enjoying the ride. Maybe part of that is knowing a get off will be more difficult to heal up from. Not sure, but I am not fighting this progression.
Yes, I did notice how well Triumph hid the Cat. I also noticed that the most popular owner mod seems to be ripping it out and replacing it with an X pipe of some sort. :grin:
I haven't shelved the idea of getting a T120. I can get a leftover 2018 for about 4k less than the 2020 Diamond Edition. If I make the jump I will go with the cheaper leftover. That is quite a bit to save.
(https://i.postimg.cc/63CKcqzf/T120-1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/CBM9LF3R)
What I did in 03. I turned 50 sold my Buell to slow down and smell the flowers!!. Got a brand new Bonny and been loving it since!!! I do allow it out 1x a month though!!
(https://i.ibb.co/VDtDNsc/DSCN0401.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VDtDNsc)
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One of my all time favorites - - 1970 Triumph Bonneville
Just a motorcycle of pure beauty!! :cool: :thumb: :smiley:
(https://i.ibb.co/1Jvty8p/Screen-Shot-2020-04-10-at-9-09-49-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/1Jvty8p)
(https://i.ibb.co/Bfy8zSS/Screen-Shot-2020-04-10-at-9-09-28-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/Bfy8zSS)
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A Triumph buddy of mine just sent me this excellent video...
Now...I really, REALLY want another vintage Triumph! Enjoy!! :thumb: :cool: :smiley:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=24&v=jcfw_SBTCso&feature=emb_logo
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JJ, maybe this will help fan the flame!
I picked up this brochure when I first moved to Toledo (1978 time frame.) It took me a few more years to get back on two wheels, but I always loved Britbikes. The original brochure is somewhere around the house (where?)
Enjoy!
(https://i.ibb.co/FWd7NkJ/01-Triumph-Bonneville-Brochure-from-1978.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FWd7NkJ)
(https://i.ibb.co/WkkwQ0c/02-Triumph-Bonneville-Brochure-from-1978-001.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WkkwQ0c)
(https://i.ibb.co/Xy7RS60/03-Triumph-Bonneville-Brochure-from-1978-002.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Xy7RS60)
(https://i.ibb.co/cCXBr2t/04-Triumph-Bonneville-Brochure-from-1978-003.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cCXBr2t)
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I have been very happy with my T120 - it came with electric cruise control, heated grips, and all the other stuff bikes come with these days.
It has served well on trips from L.A. to Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and runs up the coast (HWY1).
I haven't made many changes; Brembo front rotors (the originals were really crappy, heavy, and ugly Sunstar rotors), the Brembo rotors are half the weight of the originals, I went with the Norman Hyde Toga pipes, and a few cosmetic changes, LED winkers and new(old style) emblem on tank.
(https://i.ibb.co/m9GGK2d/67416057-10219585141044109-1869365931260510208-n.jpg) (https://ibb.co/m9GGK2d)