Time To Change

How about this one... it's a much better deal
https://triumphmotorcycleforum.com/t/bonneville-se-865/530

 

Hi Badger68,
The 2006 T100 is one of the last carbed Bonnevilles and as such are becoming collectable, if they are in good condition. I had one of the same year as the one you are looking at and that sold recently through a dealer for over £5k it was in super condition and had only covered 11,000 miles.

At £3.5k for a private sale the one you are looking at is slightly overpriced considering the mileage. but the condition and history would be more important. If serviced properly the engine is good for well over 100k miles.

As far as shock absorbers are concerned there are many aftermarket options available, I fitted Hagons to mine together with Hagon progressive springs to the front which were a vast improvement on the originals.

I personally preferred the original exhausts but Norman Hyde sells louder pipes and there are always the Triumph off road versions, if you can find a secondhand pair, with the 865 engine you shouldn't need to alter the jetting but it is something to watch out for.

I always found Bridgestone tyres worked reasonably well on the Bonneville

I don't think that there is anything particular to look out for but I would be giving the bike a very close overall inspection bearing in mind that it is 16 years old and with a high mileage, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, swing arm bearings etc. could all be showing signs of needing replacement. The chrome could be looking secondhand and that is expensive to replate or replace, once a T100 starts to look tired it is very difficult to get it back to looking pristine again.

If you want the bike as an 'everyday rider' then the condition may not be important to you, but if you are looking to keep it and use it on high days and holidays then you may be better looking for a super clean low mileage example to start with.

Hope this lengthy note helps you make a decision!