TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T100 (2017 - on) Review
Highlights
- Pure retro charm from Triumph
- Toes line between Street Twin and T120
- Air-cooled engine and fun handling
At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £170 |
| Power: | 54 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (31.1 in / 790 mm) |
| Weight: | Medium (470 lbs / 213 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesFar more than simply a retro-styled Street Twin, the Triumph Bonneville T100 has all the relaxed nature of the larger T120, but in a smaller, lighter and arguably more fun and engaging package. Fans of the previous Bonnie will love it.
- Latest news: Triumph unveil Stealth Editions of Bonneville family
- Related: 2021 Triumph Bonneville family unveiled
Triumph describe the T100 as far closer in character and feel to the T120 than the Street Twin. This bike is, essentially, a smaller capacity T120 that is not only £1700 cheaper than the 1200 (in 2021), it is also 11kg lighter, easier to manage at low speed and yet just as handsome.
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Yet, and here is the real killer point, it handles, stops and goes like the Street Twin. This may upset a few people, but after riding the T120 and then a Street Twin, I actually enjoyed the Street Twin more. The larger capacity bike is excellent, but its low-revving engine is relaxed to the point of being lethargic. In comparison the Street Twin’s 900cc motor brought a pleasing amount of poke and a free-revving spirit.
If I took pillions a lot or was after gentle hassle free riding then I totally understand the character of the T120, but for solo blasts it isn’t that thrilling compared to the smaller machine. This is why I was looking forward so much to riding the T100, if Triumph nailed the T120’s styling and successfully blended it into the Street Twin’s fantastic basic platform it would be a winner.
You don’t need me to tell you the T100 looks smart. With its peashooter exhausts, wire wheels, long mudguards and two-tone tank it brings every bit of T120 quality with it. For fans of the traditional Bonnie styling it ticks every box and for riders like myself who want a bit of modern handling and performance it doesn’t disappoint...
During 2015 MCN's Simon Relph spent a year living with the Bonnie T100. He said "It’s not particularly fast, it’s definitely not light and it’s not the best handling bike in the world, but what it lacks in these areas it gains in character". Read more here.
Once you've read this review and our owners' reviews, you may want to join an online community to speak to likeminded people. We'd suggest the Triumph Owner's Motor Cycle Club.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineThe T100 feels very light at low speed yet turns and holds a line through a bend with more agility than the larger T120.
It’s not quite as sprightly as the Street Twin due to its longer forks, and does lack ground clearance as its pegs are set for comfort, but thanks to better suspension and tyres it easily tops the older air-cooled Bonnie when it comes to enjoying corners.
The riding position is far more ‘traditional’ in its stance when compared to the Street Twin and the pegs are set low with the bars wide and flat, which is exactly what you would expect of such a model. It feels correct and is pleasingly relaxed and spacious when compared to the more compact Street Twin thanks to its larger seat and T120 riding position.
Yet it does all this and manages to retain the Twin’s improved handling. I found the T120 model’s front end a bit sluggish to turn, but despite the T100 sharing its chassis and having the same 18-inch diameter front wheel, the reduction in weight has taken most of this feeling away.
Like the previous small capacity Bonnie, the T100 comes with only a single front disc and two-piston sliding caliper. While this set-up still requires a good old tug on the lever, the fact it now incorporates ABS makes its slight lack of feel largely irrelevant. On the older model you never had this reassurance and the lack of ABS meant you couldn’t just grab a handful, especially if the road was wet. Now, thanks to modern electronics, you can.
During our Triumph Bonneville T100 long-term test, we swapped the rear shocks out for a pair of Progressive Suspension items. Find out how we got on here.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityThe water-cooled parallel twin motor still thumps along like an air-cooled unit should but is smoother than before with a pleasing mid-range and even a bit of a top end zip, yet working behind the surface is traction control. The clutch is nice and light and there is even a neat ‘anti-stall’ rev rise much like Suzuki has incorporated in the 2016 SV650.
This may upset a few people, but after riding the T120 and then a Street Twin, I actually enjoyed the Street Twin more. The larger capacity bike is excellent, but its low-revving engine is relaxed to the point of being lethargic. In comparison the Street Twin’s 900cc motor brought a pleasing amount of poke and a free-revving spirit. If I took pillions a lot or was after gentle hassle free riding then I totally understand the character of the T120, but for solo blasts it isn’t that thrilling compared to the smaller machine
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueTriumph has lavished care and attention to detail on the T100 and it looks fabulous. The small touches such as the hand painted coach lines on the tank and chrome engine details really set it aside from the competition.
Our Triumph Bonneville T100 owners' reviews show relatively positive results. The main comments are around the somewhat unsophisticated suspension, which is something buyers often upgrade.
In March 2019 a recall was issued for the T100 alongside several other Triumph models for a wiring issue. Read more here.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentAt £8300 (or £8600 for the two-tone paint option - blue/white or red/white) the T100 was very good value for money and bang on the mark in comparison to its competition. The Triumph Bonneville T100 Black, which was £8300 when it came out, covers the chrome details with matt black paint.
However, by 2021 the Euro 5 Bonnie's price had crept up to £9,100.
Rivals are the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, Kawasaki W800 and BMW's R nineT.
Watch: Triumph Bonneville T100 vs Kawasaki W800 vs Moto Guzzi V7 Classic
Equipment
It may not look modern, but the T100 comes loaded with traction control, ABS, ride-by-wire, an immobilisor and even a USB slot hidden under the seat. Cruise control and heated grips are optional extras.
In November 2019 Triumph announced the Bonneville T100 Bud Ekins to celebrate the hollywood stuntman and off-road racer.
Specs |
|
| Engine size | 900cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Four-stroke, liquid-cooled parallel twin |
| Frame type | Tubular steel |
| Fuel capacity | 14.5 litres |
| Seat height | 790mm |
| Bike weight | 213kg |
| Front suspension | Conventioanl forks, non-adjustable |
| Rear suspension | Twin shocks, adjustable spinrg preload |
| Front brake | 1x310mm disc two-piston caliper, ABS |
| Rear brake | 255mm disc, two-piston caliper. ABS |
| Front tyre size | 100/90X18 |
| Rear tyre size | 150/70x17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
|
| Average fuel consumption | 55 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £117 |
| Annual service cost | £170 |
| New price | £9,300 |
| Used price | £5,000 - £9,000 |
| Insurance group |
- How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance |
|
| Max power | 54 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 59 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 110 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | - |
| Tank range | 150 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
- 2017: Model introduced.
- 2019: Bud Ekins special edition revealed.
- 2021: Euro5 Triumph Bonneville T100 revealed.
Other versions
Owners' reviews for the TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T100 (2017 - on)
11 owners have reviewed their TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T100 (2017 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T100 (2017 - on)
Summary of owners' reviews |
|
| Overall rating: | |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | |
| Engine: | |
| Reliability & build quality: | |
| Value vs rivals: | |
| Equipment: | |
| Annual servicing cost: | £170 |
Version: Black
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £150
One of the best all rounders that I have owned.
Standard seat is goid for 100 miles before you need a break. Footpegs suit longer legs eg 32in inside. Front brake is limited and you will need to use a lot if engine braking on dteep descents. Pads only last about 8000 miles on front. Standard tyres too soft and wear quickly. Much better with Avon RoadRider Mk2.
50 mph equates to 2500 rpm. Minimal vibration felt at any speed upto 80mph. Standard tune is on soft side giving high mpg.
Front wheel not correctly balanced when delivered new and a fuel pipe nipped during assembly. All fixed without fuss.
Just back from 3000 mile trip to Portugal and wide range of roads , average fuel consumption was 75 mpg with screen and full luggage solo.
Needs the optional centre stand. Givi A64 screen works well. Rear luggage rack is well made but choose the larger top box. Avon Road Rider Mk2 tyres work well and give good range compared to OE fitment.
Buying experience: Bought from dealer, paid list price, very happy with their support.
Year: 2022
The Bonneville T100 is a very balanced and very fun motorcycle. The chassis is manageable, the seating position comfortable. The engine has plenty of torque in the lower rpm range. Engine characteristics and sound arouse emotions. The motorcycle also tolerates a very brisk pace, because of the track-stable chassis and good brakes. I claim that the Triumph engineers were passionate about their work.
I have ridden many bikes over the last 50 years, Boxer BMWs, K-BMWs, Ducati 748, Ducati St4s and Panigale. Next to the Bonni is a Panigale V4S in my garage. None of the bikes gives me such a big grin when riding as the Bonni. This bike was developed with great passion. Whether cruising slowly on the country road or taking fast corners with ambition, the Bonni does everything fabulously.
The engine pulls very well from lower speeds and is very low in vibration. Performance characteristics and sound are very entertaining. The transmission has a little long shift travel, which suits the bike, and shifts like butter.
The build quality is very good with great attention to detail.
I can report a consumption of 4.3 liters per 100km at the moment. The extremely high quality feel of the bike leads me to believe that the Bonni will have a long life.
I can't name a favorite feature. The strength of the bike is that it is so harmonious in all points.
Buying experience: I bought the bike at Hertrampf in Emsbueren in Germany. The dealer is very friendly and competent. I would recommend him to my best friend.
Version: liquid cooled twin
Year: 2019
Annual servicing cost: £130
The classic styling and lightness of handling are the best features in my opinion. I think the throttle by wire is far too light and you can accidently blip the throttle when reaching for the brake lever. Also, against popular opinion I prefer the 360 degree exhaust note to the 270 degree one on this bike, it feels like a V twin, not at all like the triumphs I am used to riding. But even so, it is still a very nice bike.
I think the bike is at its best on B roads. In my senior years I do not ride as fast as I use to so it suits me for the country roads which I ride most of the time. It is also light around town and easy to filter. On motorways it has adequate power and is smooth and quiet. It also has excellent MPG. I get high seventies to the gallon most of the time and over eighty on a few occasions.
Though I have only done 2300 miles so far I feel it could do with a little more torque and power. I also have a Thruxton 900 which seems to have a lot more torque and power, but then it is a more powerful bike I suppose. In fairness the bonneville does everything I ask of it and more. Before buying the T100 I test rode the T120 as well. The power did not seem that much different but I did notice the T100 seemed a lot lighter and more flickable.
I have had no problems whatsoever with the bike. It seems very well put together and the quality of finish is excellent.
I have only had the first service done so far and I am expecting larger amount next time.
My favourite standard feature is probably the gear indicator, though it is not that easy to see I really seem to use it a lot. I had triumph heated grips fitted as well which seemed expensive at the time but I think well worth it, far neater than the box on handlebar type. They also should really fit a centre stand as standard on a bike like this.
Buying experience: Bought brand new 69 reg from Bill Smith Chester on special offer at the time at £7995 plus delivery, road tax and triumph heated grips. Choice of colour blue and white or orange and white, I chose the blue and white. they also threw in a triumph backpack and briefcase and a full tank of petrol.
Version: Bud Ekins
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £190
Absolutely fantastic bike I have owned and ridden high performance bikes all my life. I have now got older and wiser and this triumph T100 is everything to all riders. Handles well for experienced and new bikers. Very economical and what a brilliant sounding bike. Everywhere I go people turn and look certainly puts a smile on my face every time. Not had a pillion on yet but with my riding experience I feel it will be fine. Scraped my foot on floor a few times when going around tight bends but I will have to adjust my riding style to suit.
The T100 is a good all rounder I have never pushed it past 70MPH but there seems to be plenty left. It is very comfortable to ride. The T100 is wonderful at low speeds and very responsive in all the rev range.
Wonderful low torque power lets you cruise in high gear in urban settings. There is more than enough power for overtaking and it can throw you back if not prepared for it. A lot more powerful than the Low Horse Power rating. On the motorway it cruises at 70mph but has plenty left. Great acceleration when needed.
Build quality is up there with the best I have had ( Suzuki, BMW,) I have only owned the T100 since March 1st so reliability is still to be seen.
Very economical have had 69mpg so far that is nice and easy local riding.
Could do with a centre stand fitted as standard. My favourite feature is the styling and the engines grunting sound and the typical burble when throttling off.
Buying experience: I bought my 2021 new registration Bud Ekins T100 from Team Roberts in Conisboro Doncaster. I paid £5000 plus my 2012 T100 Bonneville I was happy with the deal and Phil the owner and Paul the sales Manager are brilliant. You are always made welcome even if you just call in for a coffee.
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £150
Great bike out on the open road and great build quality. Snatchy on/off throttle does my head in - dealer thinks i'm a numpty!
More go than 54bhp suggests - difficult in town as have to keep the revs up all the time. Open road goes and handles well and seat is comfy - might tour spain and portugal on it next year.
Running in but pulls fine and no need to over rev - got a z900 for faster riding anyway. Dislike the ride by wire..... Rode a W800 and a RE Interceptor recently and the fuelling was perfect.
Early does but build quality is up there and as good as any bike i've owned.
nothing excessive at this stage
Got a good deal on a rack, panniers and tankbag - like everyone else a centre stand would be nice!
Buying experience: Total Triumph in Somerset. Good deal with extras and not worried about it being a pre-reg. Less happy about being told that i don't know how to ride a bike after 45 years and they even put it in writing to me when i asked them to check the fuelling/throttle operation.
Version: black
Year: 2019
Great sounding classic style motorcycle, the black paint scheme really sets it off with just small touches of chrome. Overall the bike handles well and feels secure even in the wet. Seat comfort is good, and the height of 790 was just right for me with my 5 ft 9 height, the flat seat is also welcome as previous bikes with there raised rear sections tended to catch on my boots when attempting to get on a bike.Only one small annoyance, the gear indicator which is set in one of the clocks, is too small to read especially at night, although only having 5 gears its not really an issue, but a sixth gear would be nice like the 1200 Bonneville. Finally, a main stand fitted as standard would be a welcome touch, instead of paying out over £150 + for one
The bike is at its best between 40 and 70 mph, the revs as non intrusive to the ears or handlebars, and returns a very respectable 65 plus mpg. However although the seat is comfortable for around 2 hours or so, eventually areas of you do start to require a break.Brakes are OK, although a twin disc set up on the front ( like the 1200 has) would be more confidence inspiring.
With a top rpm of 6k, this is not a racing machine by any means, but the twin does produce usable low down torque, and will pull away from traffic lights etc, with confidence. Running to the red line in most gears is not what this bike was designed to do, although will, but beyond 5500 revs, the bike tends to start to become pointless in doing this.
Build quality is excellent, currently no issues with reliability and Triumph have a great after market of accessories available for you to add your own mark to the machine, however they are not the cheapest on the after sales market.
My Bonneville was recently purchased from Triumph Essex, as an ex demo machine with 300 miles on the clock, so was given a service before hand over to me, but as the bike does not have a large amount of fairings ( In fact none) to be removed, and everything is easily to hand, servicing cost should be acceptable.
My favorite features of the bike, are ease of handling, great original tyres which give confidence in the wet.Fitted crash bars to protect against dropping the bike, what with the bikes exposed crank cases and exhausts, fitted non Triumph make for £120. Finally, the bike does need a center stand and it would be nice for Triumph to make it a standard part .
Buying experience: Purchased from Lings Essex Triumph , having PX my Kawasaki w800 against it, very pleased with the dealership, the salesman was polite and professional in the way he arranged a test ride and made time to talk to me about the bike .Bike originally registered in Dec 2019, but due to the lock down ( Covid) the dealership was reduced in opening hours and test rides until June / July, therefore the bike mainly sat in the show room , hence the low mileage when i purchased it. Price paid £ 7700. The dealer even carried out the first years service ( Free) and presented me with a genuine Triumph back pack to carry my paperwork home in, these retail at just over £80, well pleased!
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £120
Looks fantastic, plenty of performance and a fabulous feel good factor on the road. Absolutely stonking bike to own and ride and I would recommend the T100 very highly.
Suspension fairly basic but handling is excellent and comfort is pretty good all things considered.
Some may find 54 bhp a little tame but still plenty for real world riding and keeping your licence intact!
Only 7000 miles on it so far but hasn't missed a beat or given a millisecond of concern about reliability. Build quality is also excellent in all areas.
Easy for the home mechanic to service and I do all of my own servicing. Parts prices not too bad not expensive to keep on the road. Haynes manual and 'Dealertool' software worth every penny. 'Dealertool' software enables the user to do all the diagnostic checks and bleed the ABS saving a packet compared to dealer prices.
Shame the centre stand is a £300 option and not standard and it needs the (£160) grab rail so you can get it on the stand without pulling the seat off. I like the range of accessories to smarten the appearance.
Buying experience: Bought second hand from Triumph dealer and service was excellent.
Version: Black
Year: 2017
Superb for just the pleasure of riding and enjoying the little and curvy roads around Lisbon.
Using the bike for what it is designed it is a tremendous pleasure. Position is comfortable, even in +3hr rides and brakes have enough braking power if you don't go nuts.
Lots of low torque and great entry and exit at curves.
Not a problem in the last 12 months and 12,000kms just one bolt got rust which is not great.
It is a modern bike and it has all it needs for pleasure rides, but maybe cruise control would have been welcome for some longer rides that require 1hr plus on a highway.... I have crossed from the most western part of Portugal to the most eastern part of Spain and in secondary roads it is marvellous but highways get tiring on the neck and annoying not have cruise control.
Buying experience: Bought from Triumph Lisbon and quality of service was OK.
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £300
This is a beautiful bike that’s a joy to ride around town. It is super reliable, confidence-inspiring and easy to ride. It's also a constant conversation-starter wherever I go. Out of town on open highways a sixth gear would be nice, though.
Rear suspension gets overwhelmed by larger pavement imperfections. Avoid those little divots and cracks in the asphalt if possible.
I love it. This is no superbike, but the torquey motor has scads of usable power from idle to the redline.
There is no centre stand, which I would consider almost essential. (I bought and installed one from the dealership.) There is also no helmet lock, which is an ever-present irritant.
Buying experience: The buying experience from Blackfoot Motosports was excellent.
Year: 2017
All ok apart from front brake.
Brakes fade if you start pushing the engine, also the ride is a little uncomfortable for a pillion but it's ok solo.
I love the engine.
Very economical on fuel.
All god but no main stand.
Buying experience: Ok.
Year: 2018
Beautiful little Bonnie. Would have given a 5, but just a fraction underpowered.
Smooth, easy going comfort.
A tad more power would improve.
Still running-in...but so far so good.
Fuel consumption looking great so far
Had the fox shocks fitted as a triumph 'deal' (seem fine but nothing to compare them with)
Buying experience: Webbs, Peterborough made it a simple part exchange deal.
