(07-28-2014, 05:10 AM)The Spaceman_imp Wrote:

(07-27-2014, 09:00 PM)Capo_imp Wrote: This is a common thread subject across many forums. As an owner of both bikes, simultaneously, I can answer with subjective perspective. The CB is a 'better' bike based on the spec sheet and measured performance. I love it. But a CB1000R is a 'better' bike than the CB1100 on both counts. And so on. There is always a 'better.' But I can't honestly say that, if forced to, I would keep the CB over the Bonnie. I just find the Triumph to be an almost perfect motorbike that is loaded with imperfections. There's that 'character' thing again.

Retro bikes are often bought based on a good dose of the rider's personal taste, self- image, nostalgia, and perceived character of the steed. Of course performance, componentry, and comfort weigh in, but a good number of retro/ standard riders overlook significant demerits in those criteria if they fall in lust with a certain bike.

Bottom line is, as always, if you love a particular bike, don't waste time or create angst by comparing it to something else or rationalizing your decision to buy a bike by pointing out it's perceived superiority to the bike you didn't buy. I'll guarantee you there are Bonnie owners on forums flaming the 'fat, chromed, characterless' CB1100 right now. Hey, let's go kick their asses!

Sign me up. Those "puddin' bowl helmeted, scarf-wearing, jeans-cuffed up, hipster-British wannabes need an ass whipping. Problem is, they'd probably like it. Hairdressers, every one.

(07-31-2014, 06:00 AM)Papa Weeley_imp Wrote: As another simultaneous Bonnie/CB owner, I thought I'd chime in.
I bought my mag-wheel version in Sept. 2010. A few months later, I read the first blurbs about the upcoming CB, and just about dropped a brick; I felt that if I'd known the CB1100 was coming out, I would have waited and not bought the Triumph. Fast forward a year and a half, and I had no interest in getting rid of the Bonneville, but I could no longer go without the CB in my garage, too...
My impressions:
The CB feels much more substantial, the fit and finish is in another class altogether, and is much more suited to higher speeds and/or light touring. Although there's only about a 20hp difference between the two, the CB feels like it's got about double the Bonneville's. The brakes are much more sportbike-ish powerful, and easily modulated, especially comparing it's dual front to the Bonnie's single front disc. The suspension is much better sorted, and even "plush" compared to the Triumph.
The Bonnie (disclaimer: my mag-wheel version has 17" front and rear wheels, and is much sportier in feel and handling than the T-100, etc.) is better suited to in-town rides, or canyon/mountain road runs. I know many people tour on them, but I've done even short freeway rides, and not been interested in doing it much in the future unless necessary. The Bonneville also feels like it weighs about 200 lbs. less than the CB, and carries its weight MUCH lower. Just try moving the CB at slow to walking speeds and not have it feel like it's going to fall over. I dare you (and you can read the experiences of several of the members here who have dropped theirs, just moving it around). Although the CB is no slacker in the handling dept., the Bonnie's lighter weight feel makes it much more confidence inspiring, at least up to the 7/10s or so (at most) I push it to these days. It's a much more "tossable" bike. In fact, it's a bike you can get on and ride very comfortably and easily, even with no previous experience on it. I've said many times that it's a great bike for both beginners and veteran riders. That said, I would not recommend the CB for beginners. The Triumph Bonnie/Scramber/Thruxton Twins also has an aftermarket farkle support system unlike anything this side of a Honda Civic!
And let's face it, they're both great looking bikes:

[url=http://s157.photobucket.com/user/mustangfeverrr/media/2014-7-2005_zps5b215167.jpg.html]
[url=http://s157.photobucket.com/user/mustangfeverrr/media/2014-6-19132_zps5579a90b.jpg.html]

(08-02-2014, 06:24 AM)SUPERCRUZ_imp Wrote:

(07-31-2014, 06:00 AM)Papa Weeley_imp Wrote: As another simultaneous Bonnie/CB owner, I thought I'd chime in.
I bought my mag-wheel version in Sept. 2010. A few months later, I read the first blurbs about the upcoming CB, and just about dropped a brick; I felt that if I'd known the CB1100 was coming out, I would have waited and not bought the Triumph. Fast forward a year and a half, and I had no interest in getting rid of the Bonneville, but I could no longer go without the CB in my garage, too...
My impressions:
The CB feels much more substantial, the fit and finish is in another class altogether, and is much more suited to higher speeds and/or light touring. Although there's only about a 20hp difference between the two, the CB feels like it's got about double the Bonneville's. The brakes are much more sportbike-ish powerful, and easily modulated, especially comparing it's dual front to the Bonnie's single front disc. The suspension is much better sorted, and even "plush" compared to the Triumph.
The Bonnie (disclaimer: my mag-wheel version has 17" front and rear wheels, and is much sportier in feel and handling than the T-100, etc.) is better suited to in-town rides, or canyon/mountain road runs. I know many people tour on them, but I've done even short freeway rides, and not been interested in doing it much in the future unless necessary. The Bonneville also feels like it weighs about 200 lbs. less than the CB, and carries its weight MUCH lower. Just try moving the CB at slow to walking speeds and not have it feel like it's going to fall over. I dare you (and you can read the experiences of several of the members here who have dropped theirs, just moving it around). Although the CB is no slacker in the handling dept., the Bonnie's lighter weight feel makes it much more confidence inspiring, at least up to the 7/10s or so (at most) I push it to these days. It's a much more "tossable" bike. In fact, it's a bike you can get on and ride very comfortably and easily, even with no previous experience on it. I've said many times that it's a great bike for both beginners and veteran riders. That said, I would not recommend the CB for beginners. The Triumph Bonnie/Scramber/Thruxton Twins also has an aftermarket farkle support system unlike anything this side of a Honda Civic!
And let's face it, they're both great looking bikes:

[url=http://s157.photobucket.com/user/mustangfeverrr/media/2014-7-2005_zps5b215167.jpg.html]
[url=http://s157.photobucket.com/user/mustangfeverrr/media/2014-6-19132_zps5579a90b.jpg.html]

I agree with everything in this post. I have owned both bikes. Had a 2011 Bonneville SE Mag Wheel bike prior to the CB. Had the BC Predator Pipes and Arrow 2 into 2 map. The bike was awesome and I still miss it. If I could own both bikes I would. You are looking at two different price points on these bikes. The Bonneville is more tossable in the corners and has much more aftermarket support here in the states. The CB is a much higher quality piece and more refined with better power delivery. The CB inline 4 is ultra smooth but a bit buzzy. Nothing like the feel and sound of a parallel twin on the Bonneville with the right pipes.

Poppa Wheeley - Beautiful Bonnie. Wish I still had mine. Love what you have done with yours.