2006 Triumph Bonneville Review

The Triumph Bonneville is an icon in the motorcycling realm. Even the stingiest of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts are able to appreciate what Triumph has done for the two-wheeling subculture. The 2006 Triumph Bonneville T100 continues in the tradition of its predecessors, offering impressive power, and its oft-imitated aesthetic lines. The power chassis of the 2006 Bonneville remains consistent from the previous year. A capable, 790cc parallel-twin gives way to a classic, frame-hugging dual exhaust. This sharp design ensures maximum performance and horsepower from each cylinder. The Triumph Bonneville may possess the look of a lightweight bike, with a simplistic, vintage design, but riders will soon discover that it offers impressive power and performance, whether a rider is zipping around town or opening it up on a highway.

For those curious about riding the 2006 Triumph Bonneville, it possesses a few surprises. Triumph has done an excellent job in maintaining the classic look of this bike – the original model was produced in 1959. The pop culture status of the Bonneville has been sustained for a half century, and after one ride on the 2006 model, it is easy to see why. This bike is maneuverable, relaxed, comfortable, quick, fast, and a host of adjectives that equate to supreme enjoyment when riding. Even at over 450 lbs., the Bonneville is quite agile, and able to accelerate quickly from a standstill. Working in and out of traffic in urban environments will be a task enjoyed with ease, and with its low profile lines, it is capable of lane splitting and easy parking, even in the most crowded cities.

Venturing away from the cityscape, riders will find long cruises on single lane stretches of highway to be the greatest benefit of owning the 2006 Triumph Bonneville. This is true of all the Bonneville bikes, from the classic T100 to the 790cc America cruiser. This bike is perfect for finding those roads that are seldom traveled, and making them regular riding pleasures. Whether riding solo or tandem, and across desert flats or curvy mountain climbs, the Bonneville is up to the task.

Stylistically, the 2006 Triumph Bonneville remains true to tradition. The wrapped front and rear fenders echo vintage styling from decades past, while the single headlight, the simple speedometer/odometer, the tachometer duo, the handlebars, and the triple trees remain sensible and clean. The instruments are easy to read, and allow riders to quickly glance without losing focus on the road. The two-in-one seat allows for riders of various heights to pick their ideal riding position, while it also ensures the highest levels of passenger comfort. The only drawback of this classic seat style is the need to peek around the driver when riding in the passenger position. Laced spoke wheels are a further continuation of the Triumph Bonneville pedigree.

The 2006 Triumph Bonneville is a great bike for new riders or experienced riders who are looking to enjoy a slice of Triumph""s illustrious history. The Bonneville isn""t for the individual who succumbs easily to intimidation, but rather the rider who wants to experience exhilaration. With routine maintenance and care, the 2006 Triumph Bonneville will serve as a capable weekend cruiser, or daily commuter.