Motorcycle specifications Triumph865 BONNEVILLE 2014 Back to the future

as timeless as its manufacturer, the Bonneville continues serenely on its way, with discreet changes for 2014. New mufflers soften the sound of the parallel twin. A little style on the latter won't go amiss, but you have to pay close attention to note the new milled cooling fins. Triumph has padded the seat and added a passenger roll bar.

Retro lines right down to the chrome, two-tone paintwork and an engine that looks like it's stepped out of the 60s, the Bonneville plays the "revival" card to the hilt, just like the Kawasaki W 800. Hard to reach, the ignition key is hidden under the left-hand turn signal. Press the starter and the twin-cylinder purrs to life. Dual overhead camshafts and super-square dimensions (bore greater than piston stroke) eliminate vibrations. Smooth and torquey, the engine is pleasant without being impressive. In 2007, the twin's displacement was increased to the same cubic capacity as all Bonneville versions, i.e. 865 cm3. 5 more horsepower and a good extra mkg. 2008 sounded the death knell for carburetors and welcomed fuel injection (hidden behind fake carburetors). The series of modifications continues in 2009 with the adoption of a 17-inch front wheel, new spoked rims, the grafting of Thruxton mufflers, and modified, shorter mudguards. The gearbox, despite a rather short first gear, and clutch contribute to the overall smoothness. Surprisingly quiet operation for a 360° twin. Only the whistling of the valve train shocks the ears. So the Bonnie prefers a leisurely ride to the long haul on the freeway. The plumage matches the ramage. The 205 kg dry weight is easy to handle and forgiving of clumsiness. Handling is good and handling reassuring. Like the engine, the chassis doesn't like to be rushed. The poorly padded/hard seat and rear shocks lacking in travel, spoiling comfort. Braking is in keeping with the bike's quiet spirit. The Bonneville isn't the Bonnie we'd hoped for, but it proves a faithful companion for Sunday rides.

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)