Although there’s plenty of focus on the larger 1200cc versions of Triumph’s all-new Bonneville range the hidden gem of the line-up is likely to be the entry-level Street Twin. Powered by a smaller 900cc version of the new engine it’s a blank canvas for customisation and could seriously challenge Ducati’s Scrambler.
The 900cc engine might not match the 1200cc T120’s performance but it still manages a respectable 80Nm of torque at 3200rpm, nearly 20% more than the old 865cc air-cooled twin of the previous Bonneville range. Like the bigger version, it also uses a 270 degree crank instead of a 180 degree design, so the firing order mimics a 90 degree V-twin. That should result in a punchier, more characterful feel.
Like the bigger bike, it also gets modern tech including traction control, a slip-assist clutch, ride-by-wire throttles and LED lights, plus a USB charge socket and a trip computer integrated into its single clock.
The styling is still retro, but not as overtly so as the T120 Bonneville. Triumph describes it as a ‘contemporary take on the original Bonneville silhouette’ and we wouldn’t argue with that assessment. In basic form it’s perhaps a little dull, but that’s sort of the point since it means there’s a huge scope to personalise the bike. With more than 150 accessories available immediately as dealer-fit options, there’s little reason that one Street Twin should be like another – everything from the bars to the seat and the bodywork can be swapped for alternative designs, and in the absence of a replacement for the old Bonnie-based Scrambler model (yet), the Street Twin can be fitted with a high-level-exhausted ‘Scrambler Kit’ that removes the rear mudguard, adds a smaller tail light, a sump guard and a ribbed brown bench seat.
Other options include the ‘Brat Tracker Kit’ – with Vance and Hines slip ons, no rear mudguard, a bench seat and sump guard – and the ‘Urban Kit’ which includes ‘Ace’ style bars, V&H slip ons and a fly screen, plus a single waxed cotton pannier.
