Hello from the snowy Sierra

[Greyrider]

In the early 70's a friend had me take care of his 1970 Bonneville for a year. I remember how well that bike felt and how riding it it was as if it knew what I wanted and it just performed. But, when he returned and got the bike back I was back to riding my Honda 550-4. It too felt good but it was not a Triumph.

Now, years later, I still cannot get the Bonneville out of my mind. The 1970 obviously had spoke wheels and carbs. It never leaked a drop and always started on the first kick. So, before more years go by I feel it is now or never for a Bonne. I will have to sell one of my current bikes to make room in the garage but that is life.

The big question is - look for a low milage 2004 to 2008 or go for the EFI newer models? I am leaning toward the earlier models based on my experience with the 1970 being so trouble free. I just need to find an independent shop who knows carbs and hopefully the Triumph. My experience with dealers has not been wonderful, cars or bikes.

8 feet of snow in the drive right now and it is still coming down so have a bit of time to search.

 

[kdharri]

Greyrider,
Go new or at least EFI! Especially if you're living up the hill above the snow line.
You would notice a distinct lack of response on a carb bike tuned on the Sacto valley floor, up at Donner's elevation, vs. an EFI edition.

Check out Elk Grove Powersports or Euro Cycle in Reno

 

[George S.]

Go for the newest model year lowest mileage you can afford. Less potential for problems. I agree that EFI will be better for you if you're riding in varying elevations. I'm so smitten with the new Bonneville, I just cleared out my garage (sold a Honda and a BMW) and just bought two 2014 Bonnevilles ! (I'm keeping one at separate properties 175 miles apart)

 

[Greyrider]

OK, I get it. Thanks for the input. Our home is at 6,550 based on GPS reading. I can ride over a 9,000 foot pass or get as low as 2,000 in Grass Valley. I love the look of the T100 but pretty sure I will be looking for an SE. Choice of tires for the wheels is one consideration among several. I will be selling my Honda but keeping my Ninja. I ride with a neighbor on his Ducati sometimes and I still cannot keep up. Well, he is 20 year younger. And was a racer in his youth.

I don't put on many miles each year, a few thousand is all. No Iron Butt me. 250 mile day and I am done. All my previous bikes have been what are now called naked or traditional so riding without a fairing or windshield does not bother me.

Not everyone I ride with has a sport bike.
The hunt is on!

 

[kdharri]

I have a buddy living nearby in Alta/Dutch Flat, we were roomies at Feather River CC in Quincy, in 1970, very familiar with the neighborhood...

 

[TriumphLance]

Welcome to the forum Greyrider - enjoy the search for that Bonnie. Great picture by the way!