2008 Triumph Bonneville Review

Intro

It would be pretty much impossible to be a motorcycle fan and not have heard of Triumph. This British company has been one of the world’s leaders in producing exceptional quality motorcycles and other vehicles. Most Americans tend to think of motorcycles as a regional passion, but enthusiasts all over the world enjoy this type of riding. Triumph in particular, has certainly modeled some of its products to reflect the open road type of riding popular in the U.S., but its products are well known everywhere. English engineering and design helped give this company the reputation it so richly deserves as well as set the bar high for other motorcycle manufacturers to reach for. Triumph bikes are almost always impeccably designed with a truly unique and more than satisfying attention to detail that’s hard to miss. In addition to featuring some spectacular body designs, the powertrains and riding capabilities of these bikes are hard to match. When a rider chooses to combine the open American roads with superior British design and engineering, the result is definitely a result worth enjoying. By choosing any of the Triumph line of motorcycles, the rider is destined to learn why this mode of transportation has been popular for so long.

All of this history and long term reputation leads us to the 2008 Triumph Bonneville. This cruising motorcycle has its own history worth mentioning. The first Bonneville motorcycles were on the market in 1959. Clearly, this model has a lot going for it to retain such an impressive staying power. The model lasted until the 1983 model year. Triumph did discontinue it for a time, reintroducing it in the 2001 model year. Several upgrades to both body design and mechanics were made before its repeat debut. The most notable change for this generation is the move to an 865 cc engine displacement in the model. For the 2008 year, the Bonneville remains relatively unchanged.

When trying to move the 2008 Triumph Bonneville from the road to the written page, it’s hard to know where to start. This bike is simply a masterpiece of fine British engineering and body design. Anyone who has any kind of affection for motorcycles is sure to recognize the Bonneville for the model it is. There is simply no mistaking the stylish fender and plentiful chrome accents on this bike. Chrome makes an appearance on the retro round headlight and uniquely shaped taillight as well as on the mirrors and wheel spokes. The spring twin shocks and exhaust system also make good use of the shiny stuff. NatUrally, the Bonneville offers more color than just the chrome accents. For the 2008 model year Triumph chose to offer the bike in a fairly extensive list of colors for a motorcycle. Consumers can choose from Aluminum Silver, Claret, or Fusion White for their Bonneville. The contrast of the color and the chrome is sure to get plenty of attention at the club, on the road, or wherever you chose to take this motorcycle.

New For 2008

  • For the 2008 model year there is no significant change for the Triumph Bonneville.

2008 Triumph Bonneville Specs

  • Model: Triumph Bonneville
  • Engine Type: Parallel-twin DOHC
  • Bore and Stroke: 90 x 68mm
  • Compression ratio: 9.2:1
  • Valve Train: DOHC
  • Induction: N/A
  • Ignition: N/A
  • Transmission: Five-speed
  • Final Drive: chain
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.4 gallon
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
  • Brakes (Front): disc
  • Brakes (Rear): disc
  • Suspension (Front): N/A
  • Suspension (Rear): N/A
  • Wheelbase: 59.1 in.
  • Rake: 28°
  • Trail: 110mm
  • Seat Height: 30.5 inches
  • Curb Weight: 451 lbs.
  • Tires (Front): 100/90-19
  • Tires (Rear): 130/80-17

Accessories

  • Comfort seating system
  • Black and chrome Hand bone mirror
  • Pro headset

Key Competitors For The 2008 Triumph Bonneville

  • Yamaha Road Star Silverado
  • Honda VTX
  • Suzuki Boulevard C90