5 things we like about the Triumph Bonneville T100

I don’t remember the last time I was this heartbroken while handing over a motorcycle. Retaining the good bits from its predecessor while adding a new liquid-cooled engine and more technology to the equation, the new Triumph Bonneville T100 continues to evoke nostalgia with its classic design. Here are the 5 things that we liked about the Triumph Bonneville T100 - 

Styling

The Bonneville T100 uses a retro recipe inspired by the original 1960s model with a host of technological upgrades. Cues like the round headlamp, indicators, clocks, spoke wheels and exhaust pipes help it nail the retro look. The engine fins, peanut-shaped fuel tank with plastic bits for knee recess and the brushed aluminium finish for the engine further enhance its old-school appeal.

Usable power

Under the skin of the Bonenville T100 is the new 270-degree parallel twin architecture. Displacing 900cc, this liquid-cooled ‘High Torque’ engine delivers 54bhp and 80Nm of torque through a five-speed gearbox. The engine is all about accessibility, and has been tuned to offer bountiful bottom-end and mid-range torque. This makes the Bonneville T100 easy to ride even for someone graduating from a small-capacity motorcycle. 

Safety net

The Bonneville T100 gets a ride-by-wire throttle to improve the throttle response. This has also enabled Triumph to offer a traction control system, which cuts power whenever it detects loss of traction in the rear wheel. The Bonneville T100 also gets the safety net of an ABS system, though unlike the traction control, this feature cannot be disabled. 

Comfort

The raised handlebar, knee recess on the fuel tank, low bench seat and the neutral-set footpegs offer a very comfortable riding position, making the Bonneville T100 very comfortable for commuting. Apart from being lighter than the Bonneville T120, the Bonneville T100 also has a shorter wheelbase, rake and trail, which make it easy to ride.

Customisation

The whole appeal behind cruisers and modern classics is customisation. Though it doesn’t get the option of Inspiration kits like the Street Twin or the Bonneville T120, Triumph offers more than 130 optional accessories for the Bonneville T100 to give the bike the distinct look. Some of these include exhaust systems, ribbed seats, pillion backrest, crash protectors, bar-end mirrors and engine casing. Mind you, these accessories aren’t cheap and can burn a pretty big hole through your pocket if you don’t restrain yourself. However, what price beauty eh?