What Bonneville To Buy

Inversteve · Oct 7, 2020

Hello all,
Looking to return back to biking and really fancy a Bonneville. Have some questions on what one is the best model to buy for my budget of 4,500 to 6,000 and really want one with wire wheels.
Have seen some T100 11/12 plates for £4,995 red/white and then a jump to 17 plate for just over 6k.

Why is the price so similar but the ages gap so big.

Looking forward to reading your replies.

Callumity · Oct 7, 2020

The price differentials also reflect the changeover from original 790/865 air cooled to the newer water cooled models. Same name but rather different albeit visually similar.

Kenbro · Oct 7, 2020

Hi,
I would try and get test rides on smaller capacity Bonnevilles and also the 1200cc ones before deciding which model to go for.
I bought a 900 (Street Twin) thinking it would suit a recently back to biking old git, but no, just not enough umph, for me anyway.
Cheers,Ken.

Samsgrandad · Oct 7, 2020

Are you intending to do your own maintenance on your bike?
If so do not discount the earlier pre 2007 models fitted with carburettors.

There are a number of T100 bikes of this type around, most pampered and with low mileages. They are straightforward to service and retain their value. At the moment you will have to pay a similar price to a later fuel injected bike but the build quality is better.