For the last few months I've been really enjoying my Bonneville SE but after selling my car I've got the cash for an upgrade. I just can't decide what I want beyond wanting another triumph that is neither a sport bike or adventure bike. Is there somewhere I can go and just try a few of them? Maybe a Speed Twin, Street Triple, T120 and Bobber.
It would also depend on whether you wanted new or second hand as there are some discontinued models that definitely fit in to that category........Thunderbirds (Storm, LT, Commander etc), America, Speedmaster, Trophy, Rocket, etc
@SteveXFR: I had a similar "luxury problem." First you need to be clear where and in what way you want to manage most of your routes on a bike. My second step is then always a "test sitting" and then if possible, also a test ride with the contemplated bikes. All the bikes you listed have their advantages and disadvantages depending on your possible range of use. I have therefore chosen a different path and acquired 2 bikes. One for real long-distance travel for distances > 600 km. After the TIGER 1200 now a Honda NT-1100. For shorter stages and small tours a T120 Bonneville Black Edition. So I have covered all my bike requirements and am satisfied.
This will be a second bike alongside my 865 SE Bonneville. I don't ride fast but I enjoy a nice twisty road at a reasonable pace. It would be nice to be able to do a few hundred miles in a day, trying that on my Bonneville would result in a back door like a broken cat flap. The seat is a real plank. I'll just be going for Sunday rides and the occasional tour but probably only a few hundred miles a day. I'll be spending up to £10k so 2 or 3 years old but likely current models. I think I need to narrow down to a couple and book some test rides at the local Triumph dealer. I think this is possibly the absolute definition of first world problem and one I'm happy to deal with.
If you didn't have the Bonnie SE I would have suggested the T120, its night and day with the 865 engined models but maybe one of the newer models will be better. I was looking at the new Trident 660 as my new steed , thought it would tour better and be better on twisties, but have decided to stick with my T120.
I have a 22 plate Speed Twin, stepped down from sports bikes, but I love it. The seat is the only downside in that it is deeply uncomfortable . I have an after market seat on the way
Nothing will beat a street triple for windy road fun, its so agile and light! Well, maybe a 790/890 duke. The Trident is fun but I found the suspension too harsh over bumps.
I love my Street triple RS. but from what you've outlined I think a Speed Twin might be more your cup of tea. As always, we here can give you pointers, but only you can make the final choice.
My T120 was really disappointing until I put a one tooth smaller gearbox sprocket on it. Now the gearing is spot on and I can actually use 6th. 30 in third and 40 in fourth instead of never being in the right gear and take off and pick up are hugely improved.
