For 2008, the Bonnie is updated with a new fuel injection system to meet forthcoming Euro 3 legislation. The fuel injected engine is cleaner running than the carburettor version, and is easier to fire up from a cold start. The cool retro styling that makes the Bonneville so legendary remains uncompromised, as the fuel injectors are cleverly concealed by throttle bodies designed to look like carburettors. The fuel filler cap seal has been redesigned making it easier to open.

The Bonneville’s air-cooled, parallel twin cylinder engine offers a cubic capacity of 865cc for excellent midrange torque. Both pistons rise and fall together via a 360 degree crankshaft firing interval so the classic character of a British twin-cylinder engine is retained, while twin balancer shafts provide up-to-date civility and refinement.

Ninety percent of peak torque – a very healthy 51ft.lbf at 5,800rpm – is maintained from around 2,500rpm through to the redline providing smooth, effortless acceleration throughout the five gears. A pair of peashooter-style silencers handle the exhaust gases and enhance the traditional appearance of the bike, as do the polished alloy triangular engine cover and left-hand side clutch casing.

The Bonneville’s low seat height (775mm/30.5inches) and similarly low centre of gravity make it a manageable motorcycle that all riders – ranging from those with little experience to those with lots – can appreciate. The tubular steel double cradle frame and box-section swingarm are incredibly strong and the relaxed steering geometry allows composure at speed as well as ensuring the Bonnie needs only light input at the handlebars.

The Bonneville’s road holding, handling and stopping ability is crisp, composed and confidence inspiring. The braking set-up of single front 310mm disc and 255mm rear, both worked on by powerful twin-piston calipers offers sensitivity and control.

Three paint colours are available for the 2008 Bonneville: Aluminium Silver, Fusion White and the timeless Claret option. Also available is the subtle Bonneville Black – a Jet Black Bonneville complemented by a black engine finish.

The Bonneville is a cool way to cover the urban landscape while its perfect open road manners make it equally at home blatting down a leafy country lane on a Sunday ride out. It has a pedigree that few models can match plus a tangible credibility within today’s motorcycling world. All of which makes the Bonneville as relevant today as it’s always been. </P>