Triumph Bonneville T120
82/100 Overall
65 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Triumph Bonneville T120 vs Yamaha XJ900
Triumph Bonneville T120 scores 82/100 overall against Yamaha XJ900 on 78/100. On the road: 65–78. As classics: 98–78. Overall result: Triumph Bonneville T120.
Yamaha XJ900
78/100 Overall
78 On the road78 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Triumph Bonneville | Yamaha XJ900 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha XJ900 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Triumph Bonneville |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 7 | Yamaha XJ900 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha XJ900 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 9 | Yamaha XJ900 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 8 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 7 | Triumph Bonneville |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 8 | Triumph Bonneville |
Choose the Triumph Bonneville if…
you value lightness, accessible mechanical simplicity and the sound and feel of a classic British twin.
Choose the Yamaha XJ900 if…
you want strong 1980s sports-touring ability, shaft drive and a tough, usable big Yamaha.
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.
Yamaha XJ900
The Yamaha XJ900 was produced from 1983–1989 and used a air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for comfort, styling, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
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.
Yamaha XJ900
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are comfort, styling, reliability.
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.
Yamaha XJ900
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha XJ900. Its library score for comfort is 9/10. 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.
Yamaha XJ900
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- 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 Yamaha XJ900
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha XJ900 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.