Naked Motorcycles

2008Triumph Bonneville Black

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The 2008 Triumph Bonneville Black is a modern classic retro motorcycle that appeals to riders seeking authentic British styling with reliable performance. Its air-cooled 865cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth power and character-rich torque, making it ideal for leisurely cruising and commuting. Known for its timeless design and accessible handling, the Bonneville attracts both experienced riders and those new to motorcycling.

Capacity: 865.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 205.0 kg
Seat height: 775 mm
Power: 66.0 HP (48.5 kW)

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What’s new for the 2008 Triumph Bonneville Black

vs the 2007

Spec	2007	2008
Power	67.0 HP (49.3 kW)	66.0 HP (48.5 kW)
Fuel capacity	16.70 litres (4.41 US gallons)	16.00 litres (4.23 US gallons)
Front suspension	41mm forks	Kayaba, 41 mm forks
Rear suspension	Chromed spring twin shocks with adjustable preload	Kayaba chromed spring twin shocks with adjustable preload, 106mm rear wheel travel
Front brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Nissin 2 piston floating caliper
Rear brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Nissin 2 piston floating caliper

Other years 2007 2008 2009 2010

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail15%

Cornering50%

City riding65%

Daily riding70%

Touring45%

Two-up45%

Track15%

Best for: Built for classic-styled commuting and relaxed weekend rides rather than outright performance.
Built for: A charming, air-cooled retro twin that rewards a relaxed, unhurried riding style with plenty of old-school character.
Not ideal for: Not the choice for riders chasing high-speed thrills, sport-bike cornering ability, or serious off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 775mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Triumph Bonneville Black, with a relaxed knee angle of around 120 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 865.0 ccm
Power: 66.0 HP (48.5 kW)
Torque: 71.0 Nm (7.2 kgf-m)
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3220 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 90.0 x 68.0 mm
Compression: 9.2:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Ignition: Digital-inductive type

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1500 mm
Overall length: 2230 mm
Overall width: 740 mm
Overall height: 1100 mm
Seat height: 775 mm
Dry weight: 205.0 kg
Wet weight: 230.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 16.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Tubular steel cradle
Front suspension: Kayaba, 41 mm forks
Rear suspension: Kayaba chromed spring twin shocks with adjustable preload, 106mm rear wheel travel
Front wheel travel: 120 mm
Rear wheel travel: 106 mm
Rake (fork angle): 28.0°
Trail: 110 mm