The Triumph Bonneville T120 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a timeless icon that beautifully blends classic British styling with thoroughly modern performance and technology. For riders in the U.S., it offers a sophisticated and authentic vintage feel without sacrificing the reliability and features expected from a contemporary machine. It’s perfect for cruising scenic routes, daily commutes, or enjoying spirited rides through the countryside.
Iconic Design with Impeccable Detailing
The T120’s design is a loving tribute to the original 1959 Bonneville, meticulously crafted with premium finishes:
- Authentic Styling: It features a sculpted fuel tank, deep chrome multi-piece badges, a classic round headlight, and twin “peashooter” style exhaust pipes that maintain a truly authentic look.
- Premium Finishes: High-quality chrome details, brushed aluminum engine casings, and rich, lustrous paint finishes (often with hand-painted coach lining on two-tone schemes) give the T120 a premium feel.
- Comfortable Seating: The comfortable, low 31.1-inch seat height and relaxed riding position make all-day rides enjoyable for a wide range of riders.
- T120 Black Variant: For those who prefer a more aggressive, “mean and moody” look, the T120 Black model features an imposing blacked-out finish on its engine, exhaust, and other components.
Responsive Engine with Modern Technology
At the heart of the Bonneville T120 is a powerful and responsive “High Torque” parallel-twin engine:
- 1200cc Parallel-Twin Engine: This liquid-cooled, 1200cc engine is known for its strong, torque-rich delivery that starts low in the rev range. It produces approximately 79 horsepower at 6,550 rpm and a stout 77.4 lb-ft of torque at just 3,500 rpm. This means plenty of smooth power for effortless cruising and confident passing.
- Lighter and More Responsive: Recent updates have made the engine lighter, resulting in faster throttle pick-up and a sharper, more engaging feel.
- 6-Speed Transmission: Power is sent to the rear wheel through a smooth 6-speed gearbox and a chain final drive.
- Torque-Assist Clutch: This feature provides a lighter feel at the clutch lever, making it easier and less tiring, especially in stop-and-go city traffic.
Enhanced Handling and Rider Aids
The T120 combines classic looks with modern handling and safety features:
- Agile Handling: With a significant overall weight saving, together with lighter wheels, the T120 is more nimble through quick direction changes and feels more responsive than ever.
- Comfortable Suspension: It features 41mm cartridge front forks and twin rear suspension units with preload adjustment, providing a balanced ride that blends agility with comfort and control.
- Brembo Brakes with ABS: Twin 310mm discs with Brembo two-piston floating calipers at the front and a single 255mm disc with a Nissin caliper at the rear provide superb stopping power, complemented by the latest generation of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for confident braking in all conditions.
- Ride-by-Wire Throttle: This electronic throttle system provides precise control and enables modern rider aids.
- Switchable Traction Control: For enhanced control and safety, especially on slippery surfaces, the T120 comes with a switchable traction control system.
- Riding Modes: Two riding modes, “Road” and “Rain,” adjust the engine mapping and traction control settings for ideal throttle response in various conditions.
- Cruise Control: A convenient feature for long journeys, standard cruise control helps reduce rider fatigue with its easy, single-button operation.
- Heated Grips: Factory-fitted heated grips with multiple settings come standard, adding comfort in cooler weather.
- Under-Seat USB Charging Port: A practical USB charging socket is located under the seat for charging devices.
- Engine Immobilizer: For security, an engine immobilizer is built into the key.
Fuel Economy (MPG)
The Triumph Bonneville T120 offers a respectable balance of performance and fuel efficiency for a 1200cc modern classic. Triumph’s stated figures suggest a fuel economy of around 60.1 miles per gallon (MPG). Real-world mileage can vary, but riders generally report solid efficiency for this class of motorcycle. With its 3.8-gallon (14.5-liter) fuel tank, the T120 provides a good range for touring and extended rides.
Price in the U.S.A. (MSRP)
The Triumph Bonneville T120 is a premium motorcycle, reflecting its high-quality construction, iconic design, and modern features. For the 2025 Triumph Bonneville T120, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) typically starts around $12,895 for the Jet Black color.
Special paint schemes like two-tone options (e.g., Cordovan Red and Silver Ice or Crystal White and Cranberry Red) usually have a slightly higher MSRP, often around $13,395. The T120 Black typically starts at the same price as the standard T120 in Jet Black. Limited editions, such as the Elvis Presley Limited Edition, can have an MSRP around $15,495. These prices do not include destination charges (which can be around $700-$800), dealer preparation fees, sales tax, title, or registration fees, which will vary by state and dealership.
The Triumph Bonneville T120 offers American riders a truly authentic classic motorcycle experience with all the benefits of modern technology and performance, making it a desirable choice for those who appreciate heritage and refined riding.