I have read a few threads regarding downshift problems on the Bonneville, my 8 month old Bonny from new is now going back to dealership for the 4th time, they have tried to sort this problem to no avail, cannot shift down at all, they have told me this is a known problem, has anyone else come across this and what was the outcome, I am now beginning to think it needs a recall or replacement bike as am getting mightily pi**ed off!
If it's a known problem, why can't they fix it? Four visits to your dealer for the same fault is not acceptable. Me thinks it's time to ask Triumph for a replacement.
Hi Kips, first time I read about this. What do they reckon is the problem? Have to agree with Ken on this, why can’t they sort it then.
HI Just found this forum. I have 2018 T 120 Black with 225 miles on it. Yesterday during a ride with my buddies, I noticed that everytime I would slow down when i came to the stop and if I am in the 4th or 5th gear, as I was trying to downshift, the bike wouldn't let me. Initially I could not do anything about it and then I discovered that if i let off the clutch slightly , it would downshift on its own without me pushing down on the lever!!! Anyone else experienced anything similar? Let me know Thank you
I think you’ll find that this is not uncommon with any motorcycle transmission. You need to change down through the gears I.e. 2nd gear,prior to coming to a stand still. Flicking up to neutral or down to first should not be an issue. Also if you are prone to sitting at traffic lights etc in gear with clutch engaged, this will create drag on the clutch causing issues with gear selection. SO, use gearbox for engine braking approaching junctions/ lights etc therefore you will be in the correct gear & pop box into neutral & give the clutch plates a rest at traffic lights out in queues. I think you’ll find this will help, unless of course you have already been doing that, in which case I don’t know what the f**k I’m talking about.
Hi Russ, Look at these 2 threads. https://www.triumphrat.net/water-cooled-twins-talk/901562-wont-shift.html https://www.triumphrat.net/water-cooled-twins-technical-talk/945568-2016-t120-wont-downshift.html I took my brand new T100 back to garage 4 times over 8 months, same problem, in the end I traded in for a Tiger 800 as the couldn't sort it.
I saw your post and it made me think... hopefully they can sort it out and I dont have to take a beating trading it in. I live the bike and would want to keep it for a long time. How’s the Tiger? I am thinking about taking it for a test ride as well Thank you Russell
Hope they can, it seemed to happen every 1,000 miles or so, the dealership were very good but even after speaking directly with Triumph they still couldn't sort it. I loved the Bonnie, but in the end with the downshift problems and the fact that it wasn't practical for long rides 2up I tried the Tiger, brilliant bike, so easy to ride and a lot more power, plus with panniers and back box means it is much more practical for trips.
My thinking as well. I need a bike for long trips with my boys and an occasional ride with my better half. So, definitely see Tiger as a possibility . Please share your experience with it. Be safe. Thanks again
I use it mainly for commuting, West London to Central London, perfect for nipping in and out of traffic, also used it for long motorway trips and days out on country roads, it really is an all rounder, perfect for me, my partner loves it too, said it is far more comfortable than the Bonnie, plus it has heated seats which a godsend in winter!
