Triumph Bonneville Se Review

Used Buyer Review

The Bonneville SE is Triumph's answer to the question nobody asked but everyone's glad they did — what if a classic twin actually worked properly? The 865cc parallel twin pulls cleanly from low revs, the fueling on post-2008 fuel-injected models is mostly sorted, and it genuinely sounds like a motorcycle should. Ergonomics are upright and comfortable for two-up touring or city commuting, and the build quality embarrasses most Japanese competitors in its class. That said, go in with eyes open. The Triumph dealer network can be patchy depending on where you live, and parts aren't always cheap. Early carbureted examples (pre-2008) can be fussy starters in cold weather and the Keihin carbs need regular attention. Check the charging system carefully — rectifier failures aren't unheard of, and a dead battery mid-ride gets old fast. Also verify service history; these engines like proper oil changes and the camchain tensioner wants watching on high-mileage bikes.