Triumph Bonneville T120
82/100 Overall
65 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Triumph Bonneville T120 vs Triumph X-75 Hurricane
Triumph Bonneville T120 scores 82/100 overall against Triumph X-75 Hurricane on 81/100. On the road: 65–62. As classics: 98–100. Overall result: Triumph Bonneville T120.
Triumph X-75 Hurricane
81/100 Overall
62 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Triumph Bonneville | Triumph Hurricane | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 8 | Triumph Hurricane |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Triumph Bonneville |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 6 | Triumph Hurricane |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 6 | Triumph Bonneville |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 4 | Triumph Bonneville |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Triumph Hurricane |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Triumph Bonneville if…
you value lightness, accessible mechanical simplicity and the sound and feel of a classic British twin.
Choose the Triumph Hurricane if…
you want dramatic factory-custom styling, British triple character and a rare machine with exceptional period presence.
Background
History
Triumph Bonneville
The Triumph Bonneville T120 was produced from 1959–1973 and used a 649cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Triumph Hurricane
The Triumph X-75 Hurricane was produced from 1972–1973 and used a 740cc air-cooled OHV inline triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and historic importance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Triumph Bonneville
- Its production span in this library runs from 1959 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 649cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, character.
Triumph Hurricane
- Its production span in this library runs from 1972 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 740cc air-cooled OHV inline triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Triumph Bonneville
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph Bonneville T120. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Triumph Hurricane
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph X-75 Hurricane. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Triumph Bonneville
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Triumph Hurricane
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the fuel, ignition, charging and cooling systems operate correctly under load.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Triumph Bonneville
Rivals to the Triumph Hurricane
Final result
The verdict
Triumph Bonneville T120 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Triumph X-75 Hurricane wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.