A modern classic: the timeless appeal of an enduring
motorcycling icon matched to current technology. The Bonneville appeals to both
riders who remember this machine in its ‘previous life’ and riders who
appreciate classical form, modern function and the lusty power and mechanical
simplicity of parallel twin power.
The name Bonneville alone is almost enough of an attraction, and combined with the faithful reincarnation of those flowing lines, fuss-free performance and a sure-footed chassis, the new generation machine has a powerful attraction.
The air-cooled 790cc engine with a 360 degree firing angle crankshaft (both pistons ride and fall together to recreate that authentic Bonneville engine beat) produces a hefty 60Nm (44ft-lb) of torque – a substantial 90 per cent of it from 2750rpm all the way to the redline. And a peak power output of 61bhp at 7400rpm gives the Bonneville plenty of go.
Modern performance is wrapped in classic looks. The triangular engine cover on the right and clutch case on the left, both in brushed and lacquered aluminum for 2002, are authentic touches at the core of the Bonneville look. The compact twin overhead camshafts keep the engine’s top end visually similar to previous Bonneville engines, likewise the engine breather runs in what looks like the distinctive pushrod tube of years past. There’s even a compact and discreet frame-mounted oil-cooler to keep the running consistent for maximum reliability.
Twin 36mm carburetors with throttle-position sensors feed the unit and these are electrically heated to prevent carburetor icing. The exhaust features twin ‘peashooter’ silencers and secondary air-injection to keep emissions to a minimum. The engine is efficient, economical and yet the unique feel of a parallel twin is retained – twin balancer-shafts reduce vibration but allow the engine to feel like a traditional 360-degree twin.
The chassis is based around a tubular steel double cradle frame and a box-section steel swing-arm offering light, easy steering around town and sure-footed handling at speed. With a low center of gravity and low 775mm (30.5in) seat height, the Bonneville feels light and maneuverable.
With disc brakes front and rear, and a 19in front and 17in rear wheel fitted with modern profile tires, stopping and road-holding are way beyond what the traditional looks might suggest.
And tradition is so much a part of this machine – from the classical tank badge and the deep, lustrous finish of the hand-pinstriped tanks (there is a new Sky Blue & Silver option for 2002) to the timeless lines and unmistakable sound, the Bonneville remains a true original.
Key changes:
*Polished and lacquered engine covers
*New Sky Blue and Silver paint scheme
Color Options:
Forest Green / Silver Scarlet Red /
Silver Sky Blue / Silver
| Engine | |
| Type | Air-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin, 360º firing interval |
| Capacity | 790cc |
| Bore/Stroke | 86 x 68mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel System | Twin carburetors, with throttle position sensor and electric carburetor heaters |
| Ignition | Digital - inductive type |
| Transmission | |
| Primary Drive | Gear |
| Final Drive | X-ring chain |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cycle Parts | |
| Frame | Tubular steel cradle |
| Swingarm | Twin-sided, tubular steel |
| Front Wheel | Spoked, 19 x 2.5in |
| Rear Wheel | Spoked, 17 x 3.5in |
| Front Tire | 100/90 R 19 |
| Rear Tire | 130/80 R 17 |
| Front Suspension | 41mm forks |
| Rear Suspension | Chromed spring twin shocks with adjustable pre-load |
| Front Brakes | Single 310mm disc, 2 piston caliper |
| Rear Brakes | Single 255mm disc, 2 piston caliper |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 2250mm (88.6in) |
| Width | 860mm (33.8in) |
| Height | 1105mm (43.5in) |
| Seat Height | 775mm (30.5in) |
| Wheelbase | 1493mm (58.8in) |
| Rake/Trail | 29º / 117mm |
| Weight (Dry) | 205kg (451lb) |
| Fuel Capacity | 16 liters (4.2 gal US) |
| Performance (Measured to DIN 70020) | |
| Maximum Power | 62PS (61bhp) at 7,400 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 60Nm (44.3ft.lbf) at 3,500 rpm |
| Warranty | 2 years; unlimited mileage |
| Service Intervals | 4000 miles or one year, whichever comes first |
| Notes: |
| * measured at crankshaft to DIN 70020 |
Accessories:
*Integrated Alarm
-circuit immobilization
-‘fail-safe’ engine immobilization
-‘hot-wire’
detection circuit
-internal rechargeable battery
-current draw of less than 5 mA
-Thatcham MC1 approved
*Summer Screen
-4.5 mm polycarbonate
-designed for maximum upper body weather protection
*Roadster Screen
-classic styling
-bright chrome finishing strips
-4.5 mm polycarbonate
*Color Co-ordinated Fly Screen
*Knee Pads
*King & Queen Seat
*Single Seat
*Leather Pannier Kit
*Fabric Panniers
*Aftermarket Silencers
*Auxiliary Power Socket
*Center Stand
*Chromed Side Stand
*Dresser Rail Kit
*Grab Rail
*Low Sissy Bar
*High Sissy Bar
*Chromed Cam Cover
*Chromed Chain Guard
*Chromed Lever Kit
*Tank Badges