2005 Triumph Bonneville Review

Intro

Over the years, the Triumph Bonneville has changed with the continual evolution of motorcycle technology, yet the British-made bike has retained a firm grasp on its past. The 2005 Triumph Bonneville model is truly Triumphant—a modern twist on the first Bonnie that rolled off the production line in 1959. The 2005 model continues the long, richly storied past of the model line. The Bonneville is a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts, due to its significance within pop-culture, and its contribution to technical advancement.

The 2005 Triumph Bonneville, also known as the Hinckley Bonneville, boasts several different models, but most popular among them is the T100. The classic lines of the Triumph Bonneville are distinctly evident in the 2005 T100, as well as other sub-models, such as the Triumph Scrambler and Thruxton. There is something inherently vintage and alluring about all of these Triumph bikes. While they resemble their predecessors in aesthetics, and share the same foundational parallel twin power platform, the modern Triumph Bonneville boasts significantly more cubic centimeters within its engine displacement.

Beginning in 2001, the Triumph Bonneville was given a 790cc parallel twin, with a 360 degree firing interval, for smooth revs and performance. The 2005 Bonneville remains based on of the 790cc platform—fuel delivery is offered through a carburetor. Changes were made in 2007, boosting the parallel twin to an 865cc displacement. This decision was based on the success of the implementation tested on the 2004 Triumph Thruxton, the cafe racer-inspired version of the Bonneville.

From its 790cc power bank, the 2005 Triumph Bonneville scoots along efficiently with a five speed manual transmission. The Bonnie has no issues in quickly moving away from standstill traffic, getting off the line at red lights, or easily achieving legal roadway speeds. It is a capable cruiser at highway speeds, however, its modest weight will feel the push and pull of the air when moving at faster speeds, and around heavy traffic. What it lacks in freeway girth, it easily makes up for with nimble maneuverability, and impressive engine efficiency. Daily commuters will love the 2005 Bonneville's ability to get in and out of thick traffic, to split lanes, and to find the front of the line at stop lights. Most impressive is the money that will be saved at the gas pump. The 790cc parallel twin is a fuel-friendly machine, testing at 48 mph city, and 57 mph highway. Rarely does fun equate to savings at the pump, but the 2005 Triumph Bonneville T100 flips such a notion on its head.

Many beginner riders who first see the Triumph Bonneville mistake its size for being larger, but it is definitely a middleweight that is a great starter bike for anyone with two-wheeling experience. The seat height is considerably more than a lot of cruisers, but it's an easy reach for anyone of average height. Experienced riders will get a kick out of cruising on the 2005 Bonneville T100, Bonneville SE, or Bonneville Thruxton.

New For 2005

  • The 2005 Triumph Bonneville is a carryover from the 2004 model.

2005 Triumph Bonneville Specs

  • Model: 2006 Triumph Bonneville T100
  • Engine Type: 790cc Parallel-twin, 360 degree firing interval
  • Bore and Stroke: 86 x 68mm
  • Compression ratio: 9:2:1
  • Valve Train: DOHC
  • Induction: Twin Carburetor
  • Ignition: Digital, Inductive
  • Transmission: 5-speed
  • Final Drive: X-ring Chain
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.4 gal.
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: 48/57mpg city/hwy
  • Brakes (Front): Disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Disc
  • Suspension (Front): 41mm Telescopic fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin spring, adjustable
  • Rake: 28 degrees
  • Trail: 110mm
  • Wheelbase: 59.1 in.
  • Seat Height: 30.5 in.
  • Curb Weight: 451 lbs.
  • Tires (Front): 100/90 19
  • Tires (Rear): 130/80 17

Accessories

  • Windshields, Windscreens
  • Dress Accessories
  • Custom Pegs, Levers, Exhausts

Key Competitors For The 2005 Triumph Bonneville

  • 2005 Norton Commando
  • 2005 Moto Guzzi Breva 750