Triumph's Bonneville Speedmaster Takes You Back In Time Yet Moves You Forward
Jeremy Webb
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The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster is part of the iconic Bonneville range of motorcycles which still attract buyers. The British-built machine has the classic looks from a bygone age of biking, but it has all the technology of a 21st-century machine. Jeremy Webb rides down to Brighton to rekindle the spirit of the 1960s.
Riding down to Brighton with an open-face helmet and sunglasses sat on a Triumph Speedmaster, I could easily
have been back in the 1960s. The height of British biking and the Rocker scene in the sixties saw massive production of motorcycles and, therefore, technological development. The motorcycle market is in a similar situation now as the number of bike sales grows and manufacturers bring in modern technology to aid rider safety and enjoyment.
Triumph, the iconic British brand, attracts new buyers and experienced bikers with machines to cover all riding styles and looks. The Bonneville Speedmaster is a bike with classic looks embracing all the latest technology you could want, giving you a seriously stylish machine. It has the Bonneville pedigree with the 1200 cc engine producing a maximum of 77 Bhp.
The Speedmaster's excellent manoeuvrability, comfort and control have been boosted thanks to new larger diameter 47mm Showa forks. You have Swept back beach bars and 16" wire spoked wheels and put your feet up with forward located foot controls.
The Bonneville Speedmaster lends itself to customisation, and Triumph has many accessories to meet buyers' needs. The brand has 79 Genuine accessories to make the Bonneville Speedmaster your look and character. You have options to enhance your journeys and ride further in comfort. A range of luggage, touring screens, heated grips, and detail accessories allow for easy customisation. You can also protect your Bonneville Speedmaster with dresser bars, locks, and an all-weather cover.
In my opinion, one component that doesn't need improving or changing is the superbly comfortable seat. Interchangeable and versatile the setup features comfortable sculpted deep foam construction, separate lumbar support for the rider seat, and 11mm thicker foam for the pillion. The low 705mm seat height, slim width and low stand-over help you swing your leg over the Speedmaster and have your feet securely on the ground when you want.
The Bonneville Speedmaster has a relatively small Twelve-litre tank but combined with maximum fuel consumption of 61 mpg; you get around 100 miles before fill-ups. Enough for a Cruiser-style machine capable of high speeds but generally sits at 60 mph, allowing you a relaxing journey.
The Bonneville Speedmaster has classic good looks but, as mentioned, a range of state-of-the-art technology. Cruise control with an easy-to-use single-button system and two riding modes can be selected. Road and Rain options adjust the throttle map and traction control settings at the touch of a button and a ride-by-wire throttle.
The full-LED 5-inch multi-function headlight features Triumph's signature-style Daytime Running Light* (DRL) with a distinctive light pattern. In addition, the Speedmaster also has an LED rear light, LED indicators and LED number plate light that provides excellent power efficiency and durability. The machine has Switchable Traction Control, ABS, a torque-assist clutch, and an immobiliser hidden inside the key.
A single clock has a bezel with Bonneville branding and a dial face, which neatly houses the LCD multi-function display menu accessed through easy-to-reach fingertip controls. You have essential displays of the rev counter, range to empty, fuel level, gear position indicator, odometer, average and current MPG, clock, two trip settings, service indicator, plus access to cruise control
You will love riding the Bonneville Speedmaster; it makes you want to take long, slow journeys enjoying being out in the open and on two wheels. If you want to ride faster, you can, and the Speedmaster feels safe and has the handling to match the quicker riding. Comfort is superb, and two hours in the saddle without numbness was achieved when I filmed and reviewed the Bonneville Speedmaster.
Pricing starts from £12395
10000-mile service intervals. Two-year unlimited mileage warranty so you can focus on enjoying the ride.