I have since ridden this bike's faster, lighter little sister, the Triumph Speed Twin. It's 300cc more than this T100 and 30 lbs lighter. I bet this video would have been quite different if I had had the Speed Twin as my second bike instead of the T100. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/iddpfMiam8uZdp8.html

I really enjoy your videos. No pretentious crap. You admit your shortcomings as a rider which is refreshing in a sea of "KZfaq experts"! Excellent work.

I watched your video and noticed that you tend to ride your bike close to the right side of your lane, almost like a bicycle. You should be riding closer to the center line (not on the center line) so that you don't invite cars to share your lane. Your visibility will also be enhanced because you will be able to see cars coming towards you all the time. It will also give just that additional amount of time to save you from crashing into a car that might cut you off while turning right in front of you.

I have a Bonneville SE, I'm a woman, 5'2", in my 50's, been riding about 7 years. I love it, but I hear what you're saying. Sometimes I think, wouldn't it be nice to have a lighter bike, but I've had her for so long, had so many great adventures together, heck, I kiss the seat and thank her at the end of each ride, so I guess I'm stuck with her, plus, Bonnevilles are kinda the quintessential motorcycle, all the boys drool. Annnyway, so looking forward to seeing what you choose for your next ride. Put on those miles, nothing helps your skillset more than just riding, riding, riding, every chance you get.

This is a great, no BS video. The candid comments about your riding skill and personal preferences really help us gain perspective on your assessment of the T100. That being said, if I were your brother I'd say give that bike a little more time to grow on you. While the most important thing IMO (and you said it) is comfort, you went from a very light S40 cruiser with a low center of gravity and long fork rake to a moderately heavy standard bike with a higher center of gravity and tighter fork rake. The change in geometry coupled with the higher seat makes for a very different experience, especially at lower speeds. For me, being raised on UJM-style bikes, it was my first ride on a cruiser that was frighteningly uncomfortable; I felt like I was on a sled with my feet way out front! I hate for anyone to let go of a bike they'd love if they give it a chance. As you said in the vid, being comfortable on a bike is very important. But like the song says, listen to your heart before you say goodbye. Disclaimer: I'm no expert.

Yes, I have the Bonneville T100, and it is heaver! My girlfriend bought the Street Twin, and she loves it! Big difference in weight, and control...and it has this amazing rumble sound!

Just like you, I was considering both the Suzuki S40 and the Triumph Bonneville T100 for their looks. I ended up buying the S40. Soon after I realised it was just not enough of a bike for me, and bought a 2017 Suzuki SV650. I love this bike, and I highly recommend it to anyone.

Thank you for taking us along on your biking journey, Doodle. I respect your honesty and especially your determination to keep riding. Looking forward to seeing what machine is next. 7.42 to 9.29: not being able to filter past that queue of cagers must be frustrating! Cheers from England.

I have a 1974 bonneville t140 and it's kick start only love it. Center stand and powerful enough to do anything I want. I'll never sell it and have took it on many trips to Baltimore and Indian from pa to see family. Best old bike ever

Good job knowing yourself. Especially what you want and need, very smart.

Great video. Very honnest. Even when you are comfortable with a higher bike, nothing beats being able to flat foot your motorcycle. It just makes everything so much easier.

Owned a 2011 Bonne SE and it handled like a dream mainly I think because of the 17" front wheel and fork rake. Tried a T100 with it 19" front wheel and found handling only half as good. Build quality of the T100 seemed better but still passed on it because it rode bigger. Bonne SE rode small.

Have you test rode the new Honda Rebel 500 ABS? It has highway power, around 400 pounds, and low seat height. I'm 6foot and 250 pounds, I normally ride DR650 & KLR650 with seat height around 34 inches. Did a test ride on the Rebel 500 and I liked it, but can't seem to go for the bobber/scrambler look.

I weighed up getting the Bonneville or the Moto Guzzi V7. In the end I went with the V7 for ease of use around town (shaft drive so less cleaning), and although I think the Bonneville is a good looking bike, too, the V7 was just that little bit less common and characterful. I also have a CB1100RS and that would not have been the right choice for you. It's even more heavy than the Bonny. Enjoying your videos as I work my way through them all!

The Triumph Bonneville T100 is a great bike. My neighbor and his wife both have one. I went for a new Royal Enfield Interceptor instead because it's half the price of a Bonneville and not so far behind in the looks and quality departement. It's also designed in Engeland, just as Triumph.

Great vid! I've watched you progress since the start keep it up!

“I feel I’m approaching intermediate skill level” … has taken slow-speed handling course six times 😀 You would make a fantastic pilot - humility, diligence and a perpetual arritude of learning. Great channel and a service to young beginners!

Thanks so much for this review!! I'm deciding between a used Bonneville, a used Street Triple, and a used Suzuki SV650 for my first bike after my MSF, which I did on a Harley Street 500 & thought was WAY too heavy/bulky. This is super helpful!

Thanks for being so honest and giving us viewers such good advise I'm the guy who keeps telling you that any bike that's other than Japanese won't be so reliable, but don't pay attention to me; I could be wrong I have to admit that a lot of these European and American bikes are quite nice looking I hope you make a good choice and enjoy that new bike In the meantime, ride safe and let your confidence grow, but don't get complaisant Well, I'm going to sign off, so take care and enjoy your day

I use my second trip meter for the last time I changed my oil.

Kindly let me know where have u listed the bike for sale?

Yeah, when doing an informal tour of shops in my area I sat on the HD 883, Scout 60, and Triumph Bonneville. I liked all of them but finally purchased a 2007 s40 because I wanted an intermediate bike to start out with and my friend had a Savage in the 80s and said I should get one of them because they are easy to maneuver and and he loved his. I got a pretty good deal and look forward to many rewarding miles.

I just bought this bike as my first bike. I did test ride it in a parking lot first. But will be doing more practice on quiet streets, and hopefully I can find a slow speed class. But I love the smoothness of it. Oh, 5’7” and 238. Thank you Edie this.

I picked up the street cup in October.Haven't rode it much.Im getting use to it.What attracted me to it was the Cafe style and the street cup reviews.I watched videos and read articles where people say it over and over.It's a FUN bike.I agree.It's a fun bike.If you get the street cup you'll probably would want a Thruxton R next.lol

Keep at it. You might try an aftermarket seat. The Roland sands seat is much narrower at the front and it makes it a lot easier to flat foot on my Bonnie. I had the stock and a Corbin street fighter seat and both were wider and made it harder to ride.

What was the bbq place that had smoked belly on the roof. Sounds like a place i would love to visit?

I hope you end up getting the right bike for you, its a long journey sometimes.

Have u ever thought about lowering the bike or looking for a seat that is lower profile? Lowering the bike would give u that lower center of gravity and would probably make the bike feel lighter since u are lower to the ground. Might be more cost effective in the long run too

I am late to the party, but now that you have ridden the Tiger and have taken off-road courses and such, this bike should feel much lighter and easier to control. Knowing that, would you consider the Bonneville as a daily rider again?

Hi, about what bike did I buy... I bought a Ducati Scrambler Cafe Racer. I do not have issues with pipe burn, and am very happy with it.

When I met my wife-to-be, she was riding a BSA 650 Golden Flash that weighed ~420 lbs. She had scars on her legs from burns after spilling it multiple times. She was 5'5". She went down to a Honda 305 Super Hawk which was at least 100 lbs lighter and never dropped it. I was a service manager and riding teacher for a new dealership and quickly developed a rule-of-thumb that the heavier a machine is in relation to the rider weight, it was detrimental and in the case of emergency, very unfavorable to avoid accidents. My opinion for women riders is base the choice the machine in accordance to it's comparative weight if you want the best safety margin. Design, looks, and power features are all secondary. I've seen some very small riders (even AMA motor maids) getting by with largish bikes but they were always teetering toward a fall with the slightest negative conditions.

Luv your videos! I was wondering now that you are more experienced and have mastered the one foot down triangle do you wish you still had the Bonnie? I’m short (5’4”) and fairly inexperienced and probably going to buy a new Street Twin although I haven’t ridden one yet. I test rode the T-100 and really liked it, but wished it had just a bit more power. The Street Twin is lighter and has more HP. Considering the T-120 but I just think it will be a little too heavy with me on tip toes. I had a Sportster which is heavier but the super low seat height made it easy for me to handle but Bonnevilles are just so much nicer.

I am a 6 foot guy with a 31" inseam, so I feel ya. But I got used to one foot and toes a long time ago. Its just what you have to learn.

I am a shorter man. I am 5'6" tall. My inseam is 28". That is where I have trouble with a motorcycle. I have a 2014 Bonneville. The bike has 17 inch wheels front and back. It makes it easier to get on and off of the bike. The seat height is 30" from the tarmac. I have been riding bikes since 1971. I don't like heavy bikes. The bikes weight is good for me. Stock it weighs 495 lbs. I imagine with all of the accessories that I added it weighs closer to 550 lbs. I am strong enough to hold the bike up with one leg. Remember the 28" inseam. My problem with the bike is it's uncomfortable. My legs are shorter but I have arthritis in both hips. The bike cramps me up. I probably need the T120. The bad thing about the T120 is that it's an additional 1.5 inches further off the tarmac. 31.5" minus 28" = 3.5". Not to worry. I will buy a leaner sidecar and a more comfortable seat. Problem solved. I plan on riding up to Alaska and back next year. Can you say, bwuhahaha? I knew you could. There's always a solution if you are willing to pay the price. Take care. Vaughn

The Speed Master is much lower in seat height, and you can keep the foot controls forward (like a cruiser) or mount them more in the center (like a Bonnie). Take a look. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. It has a classic Triumph look, but its more user friendly and confidence inspiring.

I'm a short female rider, too, and so it's fun to hear from another short female. Last year I upgraded from my first bike, a Honda Nighthawk 250 to a 2017 Bonneville Street Twin. I LOVE my bike!! It fits, it's balanced, it goes like the wind, and I love every second on my bike. I love the Street Cup also, but was concerned about too much forward lean on my wrists. So the Street Twin is just exactly perfect. Can't wait for winter to end so I can ride again!

Hi! I’m in pretty close to the same boat as you are, being only 5’7” and 160, relatively speaking. Fortunately, the friend who taught me to ride (and excellent teacher!) and others convinced me not to go with a smaller single-cylinder bike. I’d been looking fondly at the Yamaha SR400 and still like it a lot, but yeah, I’d grow out of it way fast. So Moto Guzzi V7 is my dream bike at present, but....! Went for the Street Cup and love it - for all the same reasons you do. It’s quick, it’s light! It’s very well made and has better features than the Guzzi (such as the newbie-friendly slipper clutch). It is also way more convenient to have serviced. Even here in the SF Bay Area finding Guzzi dealers is a pain. Thought about the T100 very carefully, but in the end decided it was just too heavy. And given that the brakes are not particularly inspired, the stopping power on the Cup is way better. In fact, its brakes are slightly upgraded. Street Twin? Love it. But! I just hate that single gauge! Still getting friendly with my “Angus” the Street Cup, having only bought it in late November, but I’ll let you know how it goes. Fortunately (?) the rain has finally started here so riding is sporadic. Anyway, thanks for the channel!

Great and honest descriptives especially with riding experience. Well done.

My girlfriend is 5' and 90 lbs. We got her a new Honda Rebel 500 which weighs 400ish lbs wet, and has an ultra low seat height. That bike is such a joy to ride. Easygoing but it has enough power to keep any newer rider excited. I think you would excel in one of those machines.

Hi Doodle, as always a great video from a very charmingly honest rider. I would like to add to the comments below on riding progression, bikes and skill. I have two artificial hips (had them since I was 30 - birth defect) and didn't ride for 23 years after getting them, but only started again last summer with a Kawasaki Versys 650, which was actually too tall for me to get on without helping my leg over with my hand! I was also literally terrified of falling over and perhaps breaking my hips for the first month or two. However, I started doing more sport and riding as often as I could, and slowly, bit by bit overcoming my fear. I also try to learn new things every time I ride. Now, 6 months later, I enjoy ripping the throttle on occasion and leaning into the twisties. And that, I think is what I sort of instinctively feel is a bit missing in your videos on the Bonneville. I don't think the bike is necessarily too heavy. I think it's much more a case of confidence. You need to explore your and your bike's limits a bit more. Granted, doing that on a cheap 250 is much, much easier, but it's not unachievable on your Bonneville. Just twist the throttle a bit more, be a bit smoother on the clutch, look a bit more into corners and you will improve over time. Learn to feel your bike, and you'll enjoy it much more.

Have you considered a smaller bike such as one of the Honda CB 500 models, or a Suzuki SV 650? Maybe not as cool as a Bonneville, but smoother than your Suzuki and lots of fun to ride!

Can you get the Bonneville lowered? Also, one thing that has been puzzling me, I seem to recall you could flat-foot your boyfriend's R3, but that bike has a similar seat height to the Bonneville. Had it been lowered?

I got a street twin to replace my Ducati monster but although it looked and sounded great it felt like I was on a bicycle so I stuck with the monster.

Good info. I'm 6'4" and ride this bike and it feels like a moped to me. But I never considered the challenges for shorter riders.

Hi Doodle, I have the same bike (T100) and I like it. I am 6ft so I don't have the same experience there. It looks like you got another bike, but I move my self a little farther back on to my T100 get properly adjusted. Anyway, nice video, I think you ride your bike just fine. Enjoy your Triple R! Thanks Gerry

DID you ever consider a drive sprocket with more teeth? it smooths the bike

I am a small rider myself 5'4", I ride a T120. I have learned to adapt to the bike. As far as height of the seating, I have had the stock seat shaved to lower. I have also found a website that makes custom lower and narrow seats. You can also get pretty good size boots that will help with the height. I still tip toe a bit, but not much since i made these changes. I think anyone can adapt to whatever ride (motorcycle) you get.

I've been saving for a triumph for a few years and I've got 5 grand but now my head is puzzled. I always wanted a Bonneville but I need to find out so much more before I go get one."Do I need more money for a good one and what one do I look for??? See puzzled again????

Great review thank you!

I agree with J.Monty's comments below and will add to that. First off, skill is something you practice through out your motorcycle life, things become second nature as you ride. My hubby who has over 40 years of riding tells me that skill is learned by riding and making mistakes but you are forever learning. I had to learn that I needed to come out of my comfort zone or else I was never going to become a good rider and never advance in my riding. Second, I think you need to love the bike you are riding because then you want to ride all the time. When I bought my 2017 Ninja 650, (I love that bike) it made me come out of my comfort zone and my riding has improved tremendously to the point where I love riding. Third, ( haters please don't hate), but I think you are riding bikes that are above your skill level. I think it is great that you took all those courses to learn the proper riding techniques, but riding in your skill level also means riding a bike that you feel comfortable on and can easily learn. Sometimes starting out on a bigger CC bike might be too much to handle for a new rider due to the power/torque of the bike, weight, agility (or as some say flick ability) of the bike which helps you have better control. I know when I moved from my Yamaha R3 to the Ninja 650, the 58lb weight difference especially on slow turns got me for a min and I had to adjust. Maybe Doodle you are looking at the wrong size bikes, maybe looking at a lower CC, (which also tend to be lighter) bike until you are comfortable in riding and then move up to the higher CC bikes. Please do not take this a bad criticism, just trying to help out a fellow girl rider..lol! I can see you want to ride but I think you need a good mentor who can help put you on the right bike and guide you in the right way so you can grow as a motorcyclist!

I love how quiet it is, I hate noisy bikes!

From an old guy: Try as many bikes as you can. I know in the States you seem to only be able to ride with the dealer in a convoy but if you get a short list of bikes talk to the dealer and get them to let you go out and ride yourself and find out if it fits you. Bikes are like buying a pair of jeans, you can try a shop load and then find a perfect fit. You are in no hurry because you have a good bike. take your time and try something different. Not all big bikes are heavy but a smaller bike can be so much fun. Good luck girl all the best Barry

What about the Rebel 1100?

Useful and helpful tips 👍🙏

nice neighborhood, where is this?

Hmm. My first was a NOS '17 Honda CB500x. Still have it and not getting rid of it. I really like it. It's great on everything but the high speed highways Second bike is dirt only-an '01 Kawasaki KDX 220. That thing can wear me out. But ever since I had seen a Triumph Bonneville 650 (?) back when I was a kid (early '70's), I've always wanted one. I've just sprung for a Triumph Speedmaster. Wholly different bike. I like it a lot. Took some getting used to with the forward controls (still sometimes have to remind myself) and the torque is phenomenal. Low, supremely comfortable and a lot of fun to tool around on. And it's not a Harley (nothing against Harleys). It's heavy at 580 lbs., but I really don't notice as it's very low-down. Oh, and it looks famous, sounds great and it has some incredibly tall gearing. Just ordered a wind screen as the highway miles get old fast with all the wind on me. Still want a Bonnie T100. Sorry this one didn't work out for you. I like your vids. You're very relatable with your commentary and descriptions. You're going to make me take classes-not a bad thing. Keep up the good work!

Surprised you didnt try the BMW R nine T?

Free advice is worth what it costs, Doodle. You're doing it properly: ride as many as possible and ultimately choose the one that speaks to you, regardless of looks. I have complete confidence that you will make the perfect choice. Everything we know/can do is learned, ergo we have to learn the process of making good choices!

I think you would LOVE the Vulcan 900 or the even more so the Vulcan S

I love the street cup

You have a good grasp of what you're looking for and a bummer the T100 isn't working for you. That said, the T100 can be lowered easily for much less than you'll lose on a trade.

You have a beautiful bike there. Sorry it didn’t work out for ya. If you get a bike you’re more comfortable on you’ll ride more often and you skills will improve exponentially. Great video, thanks.

I changed mine for a street twin ! And never looked back… Though it's a bit small for me.

I'm 5'6 and i have the 2014 T100 . I started with a Honda Cargo a 150cc motorcycle. I can agree it wasn't for beginners. I did all the courses I could. My boyfriend at the time had an Iron 883. I thought I'd get one but it wasnt for me. I'm honestly happy with the Bonnie it has its little tweaks and all. It still is my dream bike. Greetings from Mexico ^_^

I'm picking up a T100 this weekend.

How do you feel about the vibrations on the T100?

Test ride a Moto Guzzi V7 3 or the Bobber or the Roamer , I think you will like them easy to ride and no chain to grease. You can also have them lower it , I had my Moto dealer lower mine. $8000 for a new one I have a V7 Stone

I actually had the same impression of the FZ-07...just ok. I actually thought the FZ-09 was just ok.The Harley 750 Street Rod, not the plain 750, is actually fun to ride. Don’t know if you would like it’s features or lack of. Good review details. Don’t blame you for wanting to sell.

Have you seen the new 2020 Triumph Factory Custom Bobber?

Hey neighbor, Keep at it, no matter the bike! It only gets better. Consider some training at a track day. I think Nate Kearns lives in Atl. and has a course.

Maybe you should try out the new rebel.

Your speech is so clear! What brand of headset/Bluetooth are your using??

Hey, Doodle -- This must be a few years old. I remember when your bike was the little white Suzuki 650 thumper. I had one just like it. That was 4 or 5 bikes ago. Now I have ... a Bonneville! Anyway(s) ... You've totally grown up ... bikewise ... and now you're riding Harleys to Sturgis. It's obvious you've become a way more confident cross country cruiser girl. Stay safe!

U know what I own a t100 n I love it ...it's just amazing to ride ..I think height is the matter....I respect ur review ..but honestly the ride on triumph is quality

Honda ctx700 best bike easy to ride low seat and does not get hot .you will love it

Nice vid Doodz, i hope you get the Street Cup or Street Twin!!!

Bonneville T100, la più bella moto del mondo 💓

The mag wheel bonneville is shorter and a tad bit lighter, or a Moto Guzzi V7 (much lighter) good luck and safe riding!

If selling your Bonnie is not an option then see about modifying your seat. If you take your seat off and sit right on the frame and you can flat foot it then you can get the seat modified. Your dealer should be able to direct you to a local auto upholstery peep. Good luck🍀

I find it a little bit amusing that you stress how easy one can check oil and break fluid level on the bonneville. It was the same on the S40 - and probably is the same on a lot of other bikes. Also I bought a S40 and I'm totally looking forward to riding it when it gets warmer here. :)

I own the exact same bike (year, make and model) red, black and white color scheme, and I love it!! I've often heard people refer to this bike as a beginner's or entry level bike. Not So!! Referring to it in this way does a disservice to the bike and to the rider. Thischallenging

I have to agree with the others, if you like the Street Cup/Twin, that's what you should trade up for. You'll cherish the fact that you're riding the bike you love. Also, don't feel bad about dropping your bike. It happens to the new and seasoned. It just takes a little bit of inattention or gravel/sand/road oil to accidentally put the bike down. Hope you're able to get the bike you want whatever it might turn out to be. Ride safe!

Have you tried to lower the shocks? Push up on the rear shock preload adjuster until you can turn it. Choose a different setting. Generally, higher preload will result in lower seat height, and lower in a higher seat height.

Doodle... Sell Bonnie and Buy Street Cup...Game over!!! You already know this.....Ride safe girl and be safe!

I’m kinda on the other end of the spectrum at around 6’2”, 230 and strong, I found the Bonneville way too small for me so I was sliding back on the passenger seat in the showroom. The Street Twin is even smaller. I’m too big for Triumphs. The XSR700 is here in the states but the fit and finish would require another $1000-2000 in parts to suit me. I’m still considering Harleys but don’t really want to drop one and as a new rider it’s still a bit intimidating. I’ll look to test ride this spring a lot before I buy. Good luck to you. Try the Street Twin. Or maybe a Honda Rebel 500

The S40 is a hugely underrated bike.

You are brave. The t100 is heavy. God bless!

I bought a brand new 1967 Triumph 650 Bonneville twin carb T 120 for $ 1,400.00 OTD after my 1966 BSA 650 LIghtning was stolen out of my car port. I customized the Triumph by chroming just about everything and adding a Sonny Rout, 750 kit with Sifton cams. This was a very fast motorcycle for the times and also extremely beautiful to look at and it handled very well. The down side was the Amal carbs which were very hard to to tune and made the bike a real hard starter and no electric start. The brakes were really very bad. and it leaked oil it seems from every seem. The Joe (luke) Lucas electronics were very bad and could leave you stranded at any time. Other than that it was a great and fun bike and I have always liked Triumph but can't afford one now so I have a 2021 Kawasaki Ninja 650 now and all I can say about it is that it is an unbelieveable piece of machinery and does everything very well and the price is right.

Doodle, you gotta be comfortable to get the confidence you're searching for. I know you know that. My only question is why not just get a beater 300-500cc something and rip the shit out of it until you are comfortable in general? There's so much I've learned in my first year & half of street that I recognize going from a 250 to a 650 was perfect growth. All the long time riders will tell you they learn something new every ride. Throwing yourself into these big cc heavy bikes without saddle time may be why you're searching? You weren't completely pleased with your skills on your Suzuki (apologies if I'm mistaken). I admire that you're transparent & hope that my comment isn't offensive but you need something small for a least a year lady. Once you're comfortable with that, then go buy the heart stopper. ✌️❤️

"Look! A STOP sign. I wonder what that means?"

Doodle, I believe the Oil Light is an Oil Pressure Warning Light. It should go on if your oil pressure goes low, not the oil level. That typically means a seal has gone bad and can be really bad to ride.

Ilove this bike...

I told you all about the 2017 Ninja 650, well if a naked bike is more to your liking, all of the same things apply to the 2017 Kawasaki Z650. They are the same bike for the most part. The dash is a looks little different because of the fact you don't have a cowl, but has the same features. I just have a strong hunch that if you try one of them you'll love it. The seat height on the Z650 is at 30.9 inches and weighs in at a little over 400 lbs. They are amazing bikes and now that the 2018 models are out, which are the same bike just new colors, you can get one much cheaper. Whatever bike you end up getting, I hope you get one that is a perfect fit. There's nothing like riding one that you can go ahhhhh on when you jump on it.

Why not fit a low seat, will give you more control as seated lower, you can get shorter rear shocks ! Safe riding 😎

Que bien manejas tu motorcycle saludos que tengas un hermoso dia

If you’re looking into sport bikes, maybe check the Honda cbr500? That or a current ninja 650/z650. All 3 are light and make decent power.

The Bonnies are almost perfect - my only complaint is the weight too

Liking that you put your bench press performance up against your body weight. So how much do you bench press these days? :D

Check out a Yamaha Vstar650 or a Kawasaki VN900 Custom. The bikes are heavier but lower seat height. Also, one is shaft drive and one is belt drive meaning... you can ride more and wrench less. THey also cost the same or less than the street twin you are looking at.

try a Honda CRF 450 super motard Doodle