BIKESECTION

While the Bonneville is classically nostalgic, the Scrambler and Thruxton models — and make no mistake, these bikes are all variations on the same 865cc standard theme — embody the custom culture that helped make the Triumph name the icon that it is. All of these Modern Classics are reminiscent of bikes that were stripped down to their bare essentials: not for fashion, but for a purpose. And all hit their mark dead-on. The Bonneville name commemorates Johnny Allen's land-speed record runs at Bonneville Salt Flats in 1956. The first Meriden built Bonneville T120 went on sale in 1959.  A reborn Triumph (John Bloor - Hinckley, UK) builds on success in the 1990s by launching a new Bonneville in 2000 (US launch 2001). The model sports a 790cc parallel twin power plant, and blends retro-stryling with modern components.  Subtle changes are introduced throughout the first decade to keep the model fresh. Capacity increases to 865cc, and spin-off models are introduced, including the T100, Scrambler and a new Thruxton. The Thruxton is the family’s rocker brother, with its clip-on bars, aggressive riding position, and braided hoses. A rear seat cowl adds to the café-ready look, as does a tank-to-tail racing stripe. Of all the Modern Classics, the Thruxton seemed to have the most punch in the throttle; it's a bit more eager to jump off the line than its siblings. The riding position only adds to the sensation.  The Thruxton comes equipped with an 18″ spoked front wheel and floating disc brakes.  The Scrambler plays on the MX, trail-riding style of guys like Steve McQueen and Bud Ekins, who generally took parts off their bikes before they fell off. Check out the dual high chrome sidepipes, and those multiuse tires. “Scrambler” is a perfect moniker for this motorcycle, as its design makes it ideal for scrambling around the foothills, up into the canyons, or negotiating the unpredictable streets of the city. Its motocross styled handlebars only enhance it's rough-and-tumble feel and appearance. Since the model's rebirth in 2000, a cottage industry of aftermarket performance parts has sprung up making it possible to take your Modern Classic just about anywhere you want to take it.