Gentleman ’ was an excellent movie . It was a contemporary yarn , yet loaded with old world charm , polished with sophistication and more than a hint of menace flowed throughout . It was a wonderful blend of raw power , beauty and excitement . And that , dear reader could also sum up the Triumph Bonneville T120 – contemporary , sophisticated with old school elegance and a hint , just a hint , of menace . For some the beautiful classic looks of the Bonneville will be enough for them to make a purchase . Older riders who didn ’ t have the coin back in the day are also keen buyers , perhaps endeavouring to recapture their youth ? Younger riders love the retro-cool looks too and , of course , all will love the sensible , practical layout , effortless engine and decent all-round capabilities .

HANDSOME BEAST Our test bike was the Jet Black and Fusion White coloured edition . A handsome beast with all the usual classy Triumph signage and badging . Attractive and clever details are everywhere you look . Of course , the modern-day adherence to traditional styling that no one does better than Triumph is its most striking feature . In keeping with tradition , the Triumph engine looks air / oil-cooled , but is actually liquid-cooled via a discreet single radiator mounted on the front chassis down tubes . The 1200cc , parallel twin , SOHC motor produces 80hp at 6550rpm and dollops out a healthy 105Nm of torque at suitably low 3500rpm . The crank angle firing order is 270 degrees , which helps produce an excellent exhaust burble and lovely pulsing characterful power . The 1200 has a smooth and linear power delivery with plenty of flywheel effect and torque . This negates the fear of stalling at takeoff and the need for many gear changes from the six-speed box . In fact , at times , I wondered whether the six-speed gearbox was even necessary given the torque and flexibility produced . A spaced out five-speed would be just as quick and probably more effortless in use , but I ’ m guessing overall fuel economy was the driving design force here ... all that Euro5 stuff .

90 KIWI RIDER