Saturday, August 15, 2009

Triumph Bonneville America



My Hyosung GV250 has introduced me to a wonderful world of freedom, and great friends (in cyberspace and on the road), and I made the next step in that journey. I picked up my 2009 Triumph Bonneville America today. For some time, I have been browsing for that "next" bike, and got real close to getting a Harley (either a 1200 Sportster or a Dyna (the latter being a bit too expensive for me at this time) ). There's a place close by to my house where I have bought parts/accessories, and they sell Triumph, Honda and Yamaha. I decided to give this dealership a shot at my business, and really felt comfortable there.



I test rode the Bonneville America, and that's all she wrote. Triumph was offering great deals (priced under list, and $1000 of accessories thrown in) plus financing was very attractive. So I decided to get her.
Some specs about the Bonneville America:

Engine Type - Air-cooled, DOHC, parallel-twin, 270 degree firing interval
Capacity - 865cc
Fuel System - Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with SAI
Final Drive - X ring chain
Clutch - Wet, multi-plate
Gearbox - 5-speed
Front Brakes - Single 310mm disc, 2 piston calipers
Rear Brakes - Single 285mm disc, 2 piston caliper
Dimensions - Length 95.2 in Width (Handlebars) 37.8 in Height 46.1 in
Seat Height - 28.3 in
Wheelbase - 65.2 in
Weight (Dry) - 497 lbs
Fuel Tank Capacity - 5.1 Gallons
Performance (Measured at crankshaft to DIN 70020)
Maximum Power - 54bhp at 6,750 rpm
Maximum Torque - 51ft.lbf at 4,800 rpm
She's a beauty, feels very stable at speed, and I can actually keep up with traffic, with power to get out of the way if needed. I like the fact that she is alternative, being the only cruiser out there with a parallel twin engine, instead of the usual V-twin.
Now, a decision has to be made - can I keep my GV250? I may need the funds to help pay down the loan for the Bonneville. If I could keep her, I will, and may end up bobbing her. Decisions, decisions.

18 comments:

cpa3485 said...

Congratulations! What a sweet looking ride. Have been admiring the Triumph myself. Hope you get many years and miles of enjoyment.

Lance said...

Thanks Jim - the weather is planned to be nice today, so I will be getting out and enjoying the bike!

Conchscooter said...

I had the same experience when I test rode the Bonneville, it was clearly an easy and fun motorcycle to ride. I also support the idea of buying from a goood dealer, that's one of the best ways to get peace of mind.
I am not a two bike rider so I would suggest selling the Hyosung while it is still fresh and ridden and worth a lot more than a dusty relic. But I am by nature the opposite of a rat pack.
Lots of pictures of lots of rides please.

Jack Riepe said...

Dear Lance:

What a beautiful motorcycle! And you're right, pairing this engine with a cruiser body results in stunning bike. I think you made a wise choice.

I don'r know how I overlooked this blog before, but I started reading previous posts of yours and decided to add your work to my "destinations" list on Twisted Roads, provided you don't mind?

Good luck with the Triumph America.

Fondest regards,
Jack • reep • Toad
Twisted Roads

Danny said...

Very nice! You will have to let me know how you like it after a while. I have had one on my wish list for a while.

Unknown said...

Lance:

Yes, excellent choice. It's a very nice looking bike. I think a little more power just expands your horizon a bit, with smaller machines used to being closer to home. I agree with Mr Conchscooter, you don't need the Hyosung, now scooters . . . that's a different matter.

congratulations on your new acquisition, enjoy and take lots of pictures

bob
bobskoot: wet coast scootin

Jack Riepe said...

Dear Lance:

How do you like the seat that came with this rig? For reasons unknown, motorcycle manufacturers love to skimp on horns and seats. If you decide at the end of the season that this seat falls into the "not quite what I wanted" category, I highly recommend the seats constructed by Russell Day-Long Saddle.

Mine was $700, but it was money well spent.

Fondest regards,
Jack • reep • Toad
Twisted Roads

Canajun said...

Awesome! It's a beautiful machine and you're going to love it.

irondad said...

I echo the congratulations on the new bike!

The quest for bigger and more powerful is addictive, isn't it?

Lance said...

Jack - thanks for stopping by, and the door is open anytime! The seat on the America is not bad - on my GV the seat was made for backsides smaller than mine (most are) so I had a gel insert made. I am not sure if I will need to do the same here, as the seat is quite roomy. The horn - yes, that will definitely need to be replaced. I think my 86 Honda Elite's horn is more authoritative!

Danny - I appreciate the kind words - the bike is working out well so far for me.

Bob - I am even thinking an Eastern WA trip pretty soon. The Elite will be kept - it's great for those impromptu milk shake runs, and my wife mentioned she wants to learn on it!

Canajun - thanks. The Dyna is still on my wish list...so many bikes, so few dollars!

Irondad - it is nice to have the extra power in my back pocket. I like the thought of being able to get out of the way if needed, and the pulling power feels nice!

Lance said...

Conch - your posts on your Bonnie had an impression on me. I am going to get the Hyosung tuned up, and see if someone else would like her - she's a great bike, and will make someone very happy.

Unknown said...

Lance:

let me know more about your eastern WA trip. My bike is nearly broken in. I go in for my first service next Saturday, then I think I can start cruising on the highway.

don't forget the Oyster Run in Anacortes late September.

bob
bobskoot: wet coast scootin

Lance said...

Thanks - I will let you know. I take the America in at 500 miles, which I should get by early next week, so I too will be able to cruise. The Anacortes meet sounds great!

Baron's Life said...

Lance,
Congratulations on your new toy...excellent choice indeed..you've made the leap from a scooter or two to the real thing in a very short period of time.
excellent and congrats again

Lance said...

Thanks Baron - the step up feels real good!

Baron's Life said...

You done any serious riding on it yet...? you need to be careful cause this thing will pull

russell carol said...

It seems you really are serious in riding your new partner on the road, but you could be more serious than that, I am selling my bike, maybe you would like to buy my Triumph Bonneville America
.

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