Triumph Bonneville T120
82/100 Overall
65 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Triumph Bonneville T120 vs Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis
Triumph Bonneville T120 scores 82/100 overall against Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis on 86/100. On the road: 65–82. As classics: 98–90. Overall result: Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis.
Photo: bikenet · Public domain
Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis
86/100 Overall
82 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Triumph Bonneville | Yamaha FZR1000 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 10 | Yamaha FZR1000 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha FZR1000 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 9 | Yamaha FZR1000 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha FZR1000 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Triumph Bonneville |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | 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 FZR1000 if…
you want devastating late-1980s superbike performance, advanced Yamaha engine technology and surprisingly capable road manners.
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 FZR1000
The Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis was produced from 1987–1995 and used a Liquid-cooled DOHC five-valve inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for performance, braking and character. 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.
Yamaha FZR1000
- Its production span in this library runs from 1987 to 1995.
- The recorded engine description is: Liquid-cooled DOHC five-valve inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are performance, braking and character.
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 FZR1000
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis. Its library score for performance 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.
Yamaha FZR1000
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor or fuel-injection balance, charging output, cooling 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 FZR1000
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.