November 2015 Street Twin | T120 | Thruxton | 2016 | 900cc These are the bikes that most die-hard Bonneville fans have long awaited; a brand new, built-from-the-ground-up generation of liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel twins with some serious grunt, up-to-the-minute riding enhancement systems, and the classic style that Triumph made its own decades ago. Five new Bonneville models have been announced for 2016. These include: In its press releases, Triumph has reiterated many times that these are all high torque engines. So let's take a look at what specifics we have. 
The 900cc Street Twin (image immediately above; essentially a more basic/entry-level Bonnie) is said to knock out a very healthy (59lbs-ft) 80Nm @ 3200 rpm with torque available across the rev range. Triumph describes this one as offering "stripped-back styling and a dynamic riding experience". The engine, note, features a 270-degree crankshaft as typified by the current Triumph Scrambler. 
Next, the 1200cc T120 Bonnevile (image immediately above) is said to generate 77.4lbs-ft (105Nm) @ 3100rpm. That, says Triumph, is 54% more torque that you get from the current stock T100. Squint, and you could be looking at a late 1960s Bonnie. We're assuming the crank is 360-degrees [Update: The crank is in fact 270-degrees - Ed]. 
▲ Triumph Thruxton R for 2016. Not only does it walk the walk, but Triumph says it torques the torque. We're awaiting the power figures, which are never enough, but we know we won't be disappointed. Meanwhile, the new, 2016 Thruxton (image immediately above) will put no less than 82.6lbs-ft (112Nm) @ 4,950rpm between your legs. That's said to be 62% more torque than the current Thruxton. The 2016 Thruxton will be offered in two specifications; the standard model (with a traditional/conventional front fork), and the R-version (shown here, albeit with an optional cockpit fairing). All bikes are equipped with a slip assist clutch (for lighter action), ABS, traction control, a ride-by-wire throttle, four selective rider modes, distinctive LED rear lights on all models, LED daytime running lights (on all the 1200s where legislation allows), a USB charging socket and an engine immobiliser. The frame, engine, and bodywork is all new. Expect revised geometry, tauter handling and a whole lotta power (details have yet to be released). Incidentally, the Triumph's press releases were pretty sloppy and confusing, so expect some of these details to change slightly as we unravel the mysteries. Also, there's an awful lot that Hinckley hasn't told anyone. So this story is going to run (while the factory milks it for all its worth, and good luck to Triumph). 
▲ "TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES SINCE 1902". A nice touch? Or a cheeky play with history? You can save that one for the pub debating society. Clearly, Triumph has put a lot more thought and effort into these bikes than it did with the 2001 Bonneville. The firm has gone back to basics, has listened to feedback, has poked its designers and engineers with a sharp stick and has demanded something superlative. And at first glance, that's exactly what's been delivered. Everywhere there are wonderful touches, from the fuel injectors styled like Amal Monobloc carburettors, to the ignition points cover (which no doubt has some contrived practical function, to the restyled (and more angular) cam covers, to the elegantly creased side covers. The fuel tanks certainly carry a more pleasing eye-line. The primary covers are beautifully developed and look perfectly natural; ditto the new timing cover, the barrel and the cylinder head. 
As if that ain't enough, the new 'bar end mirrors add that extra '60s touch. The saddles are pure Bonneville nostalgia. The grab rails carry that perfect half-moon shape. The silencers are set just right. And the indicators are suitably minimal. We anticipate plenty of high tech features on the instrumentation. Meanwhile, if you're looking to individualise your 2016 Bonnie, Hinckley is offering an "aggressive" Brat Tracker Kit, a Scrambler Kit and an Urban Kit. Details to follow, no doubt. But the best part is simply the 1200cc of muscle that's coming right at us. Harley-Davidson, Ducati, Kawasaki and BMW (in particular) will be watching these new bikes very closely. We think there are going to be fights down at your local Triumph dealer—assuming, that is, the first road tests are positive. And why wouldn't they be? If Triumph has got it wrong, these new Bonnevilles ain't likely to break the bank. Nevertheless, Triumph clearly recognises the importance of consolidating its market and is evidently working hard to address the serious competition out there. Except that for many riders, suddenly there is no competition. There are only these new Bonnevilles.  So when can we expect to see the first road tests of these bikes? Well we've just spoken to Triumph's PR people, and they're looking at April 2016. We think it's pretty cruel to dangle the carrot that far in front of the donkey. But what can you do? There are no prices yet. However, Triumph reckon the numbers will be "competitive". We could speculate on this point, but speculation isn't our strong suit, and you can do that for yourself.
When they're launched, we'll be taking a very close look at these motorcycles with a view to buying, and we ain't bought a new bike in more years than any of us here can remember. One final point; we're all disappointed that these new Bonnevilles are to be assembled in Thailand. We'd naturally like to see them rolling of an assembly line in ... well, Hinckley, Leicestershire will do fine. Of course, the bikes would cost a little more. But some guys might pay extra for the privilege. Fender guitars are built in Mexico, Japan and the USA, and they're priced accordingly. Motorcycles are, of course, a little more complicated than guitars. But if enough people tell their dealer that they'd like a 100% British built Bonnie, maybe John and Nick Bloor would get to hear it on the grapevine. Whaddya think? — Big End | 
