Icons. They endure, they endear, resonating simple truths that span generations. They bookmark a memory, highlighting a place in time, essentially making it timeless. “Like this motorcycle,” I thought, as I rode the redesigned 2009 Triumph Bonneville SE under an oak tree canopy along Floridas Saint Johns River. Since its inception in 1959, the British-bred Bonneville has captured motorcycling souls the world over with its simplicity of spirit. Fifty years later and newly revised, this iconic motorcycle still “feels” true to that nature in spite of the 21st century technology it now boasts. Simultaneously progressive and nostalgic, consider this new Bonneville a two-wheeled time traveler.
Though many who lived during this bikes heyday of the 60s and 70s can appreciate its sentimental value, the 2009 Bonneville and Bonneville SE models should hold great appeal to newer riders, smaller riders or anyone who wants a great riding, handling and performing motorcycle that is undeniably cool. The changes wrought on the 2009 versions improve this icons prowess but dont detract from the factors that made it so beloved.
At first glance nothing seems changed. Climb aboard and the differences glare. The seat height now sits at just 29.1 inches, more than one inch lower than the 2008 iteration. Though 29 inches seems high, the narrow nose and profile eliminates reach problems for short-statured riders. While stopped your legs rest comfortably and solidly in front of the foot pegs. With feet on the pegs you assume a posture similar to that of a naked/standard motorcycle with a straight back and comfortable bend in the knees. No need to stretch for the Bonnies handlebars either as they reach further back toward the rider than on prior models. Riders can tailor the easy-to-pull adjustable clutch and brake levers to fit their hands. The kickstand is easily viewed, reached and deployed, eliminating a persistent pet peeve for the vertically challenged. The bikes mere well-balanced 440-pound weight makes getting the bike off the stand an easy endeavor.
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Fuel injection, also new for 2009 (and cleverly hidden so as not to disturb the engines retro persona), helps the Bonnie start easily, though it still sports a cold-start choke lever for when it needs extra help. It maintains its historically styled and storied air-cooled, parallel-twin motor. The Bonnies 865ccs give it (according to Triumph) about 67 horsepower at 7500 rpm, and torque peaks at 51 foot pounds at 5800 rpm.
I had ridden recent versions of the Bonneville over the last few years but felt surprised when I threw my leg over this 2009 model. At 5 feet 3 inches with a 29-inch inseam this new Bonnie felt tailor-made for me. The large, unobstructed retro-round mirrors (that never vibrated) gave me a great view behind. In front, the handlebars and levers fell perfectly in place. A simple round instrument display sat in plain view offering the basic information speedometer, odometer trip meter and a tachometer but no more. Were talking retro, remember? Im willing to wager famed Bonneville aficionado Steve McQueen didnt worry much about miles to empty or even a clock, for that matter.
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The sight of a Bonneville elicits respect even from those born after its heyday. The upward-sweeping megaphone muffler, the gas tank silhouette, the bench-style seatfolks smile when they see it and appreciate its reference to and reverence of the past. But while its looks make some hearts beat faster, riding it provides a happier adrenaline rush.
Snappy, zippy, fun I literally laughed while aboard the Bonneville. The Bonnevilles redesign included a change to smaller 1- inch tires (and new cast wheels) that really improved the bikes responsiveness; its extremely easy to turn and reacts very quickly to input. That, combined with the Bonnies relatively low weight, added up to a joyously fun riding experience. Slow speed maneuvering proved effortless and worry-free. Its un-fancy suspension still provided good bump absorption and the single 310mm front disc with two-piston caliper and lone 255mm rear disc with two-piston caliper brakes adequately stopped the bike.
The Bonneville SE also adapted to any type of roadway. That 865cc motor quickly propelled the Bonnie to speed and the transmission shifted easily through its five gears. It didnt feel “little” at speed, wasnt bullied by gusting wind or passing trucks, and didnt vibrate at higher rpms.
On back roads it felt nimble and quick, more like a sport bike than a retro-cruiser. I felt able to conquer anything dirt and gravel roads, tight u-turns, busted macadam with no worry of incompetence, thanks to its coordinated package of ergonomics, motor, and weight. Lithe, slim and seemingly carefree, referencing days of rebellion and freedom, this timeless two-wheeled icon unselfishly shares its easygoing nature. Peace, love, and rock n roll, anyone? The 2009 Bonneville SE its one groovy bike, man.
Specs at a Glance: 2009 Triumph Bonneville and Bonneville SE
Displacement: 865cc
Seat Height: 29.1 inches
Fuel Capacity: 4.2 gallons
Weight: 440 pounds (dry, no fluids)
MSRP: $7,699 for the Bonneville in either Jet Black or Fusion White. $8,399 for the Bonneville SE (which adds a tachometer, chromed tank badge, and polished alloy engine covers) in either Jet Black or Pacific Blue/Fusion White.
WRN Recommendation:
I absolutely had a ball riding this motorcycle and its package of performance and ergonomics blew me away. Though sized well for smaller and/or beginner riders, those with more experience should not shy away from the Bonneville SE thinking its a beginner bike. Anyone with any experience should appreciate Triumphs 2009 Bonneville SEs performance. Plus, it offers style unlike anything else on the road. If youre looking to stand out from the masses of cruisers and sportbikes, the Bonneville SE could be for you.
Other Modern Classics by Triumph:
Two other “modern classic” Triumphs are the Bonneville T1000 and the Bonneville Thruxton. The light and low nature of these bikes naturally draws women and new riders to them while still having more power than the typical beginner bike.
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At 5 feet with an inseam of about 27/28 inches I found this bike perfect for me. I can reach the ground, albeit on tip toes, but enough to feel completely confident, and that was whilst wearing flat Converse trainers! I have test rode one whilst wearing boots that take me up an inch or so and could firmly plant my feet on the ground. I have ridden bikes were I can’t but I prefer the confidence of being able to get both feet on the ground at stops.I haven’t actually bought one yet but have had two test rides and the bike is awesome! A word of warning though for those interested in buying a screen, one of the test ride bikes had a screen and it caused quite a bad buffering at around 80 mph. I had to back off as it was like a speed wobble.I was amazed by the light weight of the bike and how easy it is to ride. I’m used to lightweight 250 sportbikes! I love it and I shall have one!
After trying numerous bikes for a comfortable and reachable leg length and hours of salespeople trying to sell me £400 aftermarket shocks/lowering kits that would only reduce the seat height by 35mm, I came across the Bonnie. Oh my god, what an awesome machine. Leg length is ideal. I am 5ft 2in and this is just fine. I must say it look a little while to gain confidence on stopping and holding the weight, but now there’s no stopping me. If like me you feel there is not a bike out there for you to feel comfortable on, go get and test ride a Bonnie. Wise up, other manufacturers—there are short-legged women who want power and performance on a machine. Stop making bikes too bloody tall!
Just came across this and wanted to thank you for featuring the Triumph brand. I've been riding since 1983 (am I really that old?) have had countless bikes and have two Brit babes in the garage – a Rocket III and a Sprint ST. I kinda dig oil changes and such cause the demo I ride is always a Bonnie – what a great scooter! Nothing beats the Triumph for style and performance!
Just read your write-up and I am a Brit chick riding a 2007 Bonnie (lucky me). I have had the pleasure of riding a courtesy bike whilst my baby was being serviced and I must say I was very impressed with the 2009 model. The handling was so easy and light and still nippy. I am currently considering my next move, whether or not to change. Keep on coming. Love your info.
I rode 15 years ago – just got back into it last year, and bought a 250cc. After just a few months, felt I bought too small of a bike (5 feet 3 inches 120 pounds). Looking around for something with more power for those longer rides (the 250cc just doesn't cut it). Been looking at Harleys but I feel they are somewhat over-priced. Test rode a Triumph Bonneville (2010) last weekend, and boy – was I impressed! The handling was awesome and the nimbleness of the bike was great. Good acceleration without being too “fast.” Easy to maneuver through turns, and the mid-foot controls make the ride very comfortable. The seat height was low and good for a short rider although the comfort of the seat could be better.
Overall this was a beautiful handling bike, especially comfortable for a smaller female rider. I would definitely add a windshield and saddle bags. Go out and test one for yourself.
I just recently purchased a 2009 Bonneville Black. I am 5 feet 8 inches and this bike fits me perfectly. I have owned many bikes in past and this is one of the best handling bikes I have driven.
My 2009 Triumph Bonneville problems
Unfortunately the 2009 Triumph Bonneville has a very serious problem where the ecu and battery are concerned. If the battery loses even .5 of a volt the bike will not start. This means that if you take a short drive around town and stop three times you better have a battery charger in your pocket otherwise you will be pushing the bike home as it will not start on the 4th start up. Triumph's has told its dealers to tell customer's reporting this problem to “buy a battery charger” which is an extremely lame answer to say the least.
While the 2009 Triumph Bonneville looks pretty it has serious problems, I won't go into the extremely “snatchy” throttle response at this time.
I only wish I knew this information before buying the bike. You can find very good information about the 2009 Triumph Bonneville starting problem documented here:
http://www.austech.info/automotive-technology/22868-2009-triumph-bonneville-problem.html
I'm lucky enough to have the new SE parked in my garage, and I love it. It's my second bike; I've had my license for less than a year, and I feel it's an absolute perfect choice for me. I'm 5 feet 2.5 inches, with a 29-inch inseam. Everyone loves this bike. It's easier to ride than my Ninja 250 in many ways, and it's beautiful. We replaced the shocks with YSS progressives from Klaus at HyperPro, a little shorter than stock. The stock shocks didn't exactly make my back happy, but the YSS are a worthwhile upgrade for a long-term love affair.
Thanks for the info on the Triumph. I am a taller rider at 5 feet 11 inches and was wondering how it would fit for me. I am going to try out the different models one day soon in Tucson, Arizona.
Very sweet looking bike, love the retro look and the 29-inch seat height its perfect for girls! And when I hit the lottery…
I bought a left-over 2007 Bonneville last summer (2008). When I discovered they where coming out with a lower model in 2009, I kicked myself as I definitely would have waited. I love my bike, but at 5-feet-2 I am grappling with how I can lower this bike without spending mega bucks. The shocks are at the lowest setting. I'm wondering if the 2009 seat will fit on my model. I'm going to check with the dealer. My Bonneville is “Steve McQueen” green.
Thank you for introducing me to this new Triumph. I've always been attracted to the Triumph look/design and now I have a good reason to find one. I'm always on the lookout for my next bike – aren't most riders? At 5 feet 2 inches and 100 pounds, I feel limited by the seat height and weight of a lot that's out there. I know that smaller riders can handle big bikes but my mind gets freaked out by the weight of more powerful bikes.
I currently ride a Kawasaki Vulcan EN500 and it's a pretty good fit and weighs the same as this Triumph. It will be interesting to see how I feel with my feet behind my knees as they are on the Triumph. I also think that the narrow seat will make my legs seem longer even though the seat height is an inch higher than my Vulcan. I'm really excited now, just thinking that this might be my next bike! Thanks for your review.
Nice write up. Will be a bike to consider as I'm in the market for “upgrade” from my current Honda Rebel.