Triumph’s in the middle of updating its Modern Classic series, and that means the T120 Bonneville and the company’s other 1200 cc models are all overhauled to meet Euro5 emissions, among other updates. Available in Canadian dealerships this spring, they will be classified as 2022 models.
The liquid-cooled parallel twin gets a lighter crankshaft, new balancers and new clutch, lessening internal power loss. Improved efficiency means the engine is now Euro5-friendly, with better fuel economy. There are two version of the engine. The T120 models make 79 horsepower at 6,550 rpm, and 77 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm, a very low ceiling for peak torque. The Speedmaster and Bobber models make 77 horsepower at 6,100 rpm, and 78 pound-feet of torque at 3,850 rpm. They’re supposed to feel more torquey at lower revs.
Both versions of the engine have major service intervals of 16,000 km.
All the 1200 cc models have ride-by-wire throttle, with Rain and Road riding modes. Switchable traction control is standard, and ABS. As you’d expect, Triumph has a wide range of accessories available for all these models. Some of the extras are model-specific, and some will fit anything from the 1200 line.
Triumph T120 Bonneville
Triumph’s flagship retro bike. This machine comes covered in chrome and other retro flair, including knee pads and spoked rims. Those aluminum rims are new for 2021, supposedly reducing unsprung weight considerably, which in turn improves handling. There’s a new set of Brembo stoppers in front as well, and updated instruments. The front forks are new, too, a set of 47 mm cartridge units from Showa. The T120 Bonneville will cost $13,450 in Canada, with availability in May.
Triumph T120 Black
This is a sportier take on the T120 formula, with blacked-out finishes. It’s very similar to the Bonneville, and also comes in May, at the same $13,450 price.
Bonneville Speedmaster
With slightly less horsepower, the Speedmaster is focused more on comfortable cruising than the T120 models. This model also gets new 47 mm Showa cartridge forks, for improved handling, and Brembo brakes. There are some changes to the trim, along with new LED lights and other minor tweaks. Nothing too earth-shattering, but the machine does take a step forward for the 2022 model year. It should be in Canadian dealers by March, priced at $14,590.
Bonneville Bobber
The Bobber returns, but now Triumph is only selling a single Bobber model. It’s the same formula: A fake hardtail (there’s a hidden monoshock), but it’s got chunkier aesthetics for 2021, thanks to a fat 16-inch front wheel, beefier front forks, fork gaiters, and fat Avon Cobra tires.Â
There are some decent upgrades here. Along with the re-tuned engine’s improved fuel efficiency, Triumph upped the gas tank from two gallons to three gallons. Hello, improved fuel range! Now the question is, will you be comfortable on the bike for the longer hauls? Adjustable seat and controls should help with that, along with accessories to tweak the bike’s fit.
The Bobber shows up in showrooms in March, priced at $14,950.
