New Bonneville is the tagline to differentiate this site from one talking about other bikes with the same name. Strictly speaking we should probably talk about Meriden, Bloor and Hinkley Bonnevilles based on where the Triumph HQ was when they were built, but then that would cause confusion with where we were riding and so on. The Hinkley Bonnevilles (2001- ) are "new". The family starts with the 790 and runs via the black, T100, Speedmaster, America, Thruxton and Scrambler to the SE in numerous variants.
While I would never be rude to anyone who wanted to talk about where their old bike is leaking oil from today, I really wouldn't find it that interesting. There also seems to be a natural friction between some Meriden owners who feel their bikes are somehow reduced by the presence of Hinkleys, the tinkerers who'll suggest **** like oil changes every 200 yards against predictions of imeadiate and disasterous acetylene pump failures and Hinckley riders who mostly want to ride. Having this site where the main subject is the Hinckleys is like having a smoking area in the pub, we can indulge ourselves knowing no one will get upset and the classic guys can do their thing in peace.
As to who we are, that's the biggest question. I'm in a minority, I have a Bonneville because it uses BMW R80 level technology with R1100 materials and no previous owners bodges. I couldn't care less about the badge, the company history and what it looks or sounds like, I want simple and tough. At the other end of the scale are owners who treat their bikes like a painters canvas. I don't get it, but they seem to enjoy themselves and do no harm, so I wish them luck.
As to modifications, I'd challenge anyone to find a 12 month old Bonneville outside a dealer that hasn't had something added, removed or changed! It's not that they need it, it's just it's so easy and the parts are out there.
Andy
