2022 Triumph Bonneville Bobber: Stunning Retro Cruiser with 15 Brutal Truths

Introduction to the Triumph Bonneville Bobber

The 2022 Triumph Bonneville Bobber is a modern-day take on a 1940s classic. With its minimalist styling, low stance, and muscular performance, it captures the essence of old-school bobbers while adding modern technology and refinement.

The Bonneville Bobber lineup has always celebrated the raw, stripped-back style of post-war custom bikes. But for 2022, Triumph refreshed the Bobber with technical and visual upgrades that bring it closer to perfection—without losing its soul.

If you're drawn to motorcycles with character, personality, and presence, this one deserves your full attention.

Engine and Transmission

At the heart of the 2022 Bobber lies Triumph’s iconic 1200cc High Torque parallel twin engine.

  • Horsepower: 77 HP @ 6,100 RPM

  • Torque: 106 Nm @ 4,000 RPM

  • Transmission: 6-speed with torque-assist clutch

The torque arrives early, giving it that unmistakable thump when rolling on the throttle. The twin airbox and dual slash-cut pipes create a deep, rich exhaust note that matches its attitude.

Despite its vintage appearance, this motor is smooth, responsive, and engineered for everyday usability.

Chassis and Suspension

The Bobber’s standout design includes a floating seat pan, a hidden mono-shock, and a hardtail-style rear frame—but don’t be fooled: it rides smoother than it looks.

  • Front Suspension: 47mm Showa cartridge forks

  • Rear Suspension: Mono-shock with linkage

  • Frame: Tubular steel with a twin-cradle design

This combination keeps the Bobber composed, even over rough city streets. It may not be a canyon carver, but it's planted and predictable in turns.

Brakes and Tires

Triumph didn’t skimp on stopping power:

  • Front: Twin 310mm discs with Brembo 2-piston calipers

  • Rear: 255mm disc with Nissin single-piston caliper

  • ABS: Dual-channel standard

  • Tires: Avon Cobra Chrome (100/90-19 front, 150/80-16 rear)

These components give the Bobber strong, linear braking and excellent grip—important when managing a torquey twin like this.

Ride Experience and Handling

For a low-slung cruiser, the 2022 Bonneville Bobber handles surprisingly well.

  • Low-speed balance is excellent thanks to its low center of gravity.

  • In-city maneuvering feels controlled and responsive.

  • On highways, it cruises effortlessly around 100–120 km/h with plenty left in reserve.

At lean, the footpegs touch down sooner than sportier bikes, but that’s part of its character.

Design and Retro Styling

Triumph absolutely nailed the retro styling.

  • Tank Options: Matte Storm Grey, Cordovan Red, Jet Black, and more

  • Minimal Bodywork: Clean lines with floating aluminum fenders

  • Headlamp: Full LED with daytime running light halo ring

  • Cluster: Single-dial with digital inserts—sleek and functional

From the brushed aluminum engine covers to the spoked wheels, everything feels curated and premium.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Despite its bold stance, the 2022 Bobber is surprisingly comfortable for solo riders.

  • Seat Height: 690mm—very accessible

  • Seat Position: Adjustable forward/backward for different rider sizes

  • Foot Controls: Mid-position, allowing a natural leg bend

  • Handlebars: Wide, with a slight lean-in

Riding position is ideal for shorter commutes and relaxed weekend cruising.

Features and Technology

The 2022 model keeps it simple—but smart:

  • Two Riding Modes: Road and Rain

  • Traction Control: Switchable

  • ABS: Standard

  • Lighting: All-LED setup

  • Instrumentation: Analog speedo with digital readouts for gear, odo, fuel, and trip info

While it doesn’t overwhelm with electronics, the essentials are well-integrated.

Build Quality and Craftsmanship

Triumph’s reputation for fit and finish shines through on the 2022 Bobber.

  • Weld Quality: Seamless and neatly done

  • Paint: Rich, deep finishes with high resistance to chipping

  • Materials: Real brushed metal, high-grade plastics, and premium seat upholstery

  • Cables & Hoses: Routed cleanly, contributing to the tidy look

There’s a tactile satisfaction in every component—from the smooth clutch action to the responsive throttle. It’s clearly a bike built with pride.

Fuel Economy and Range

Despite the big twin engine, the Bobber delivers respectable fuel efficiency:

  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 12 liters

  • Real-World Mileage: 20–23 km/l (47–55 mpg)

  • Average Range: ~240–270 km on a full tank

For most city rides and weekend getaways, the range is more than sufficient. Long-distance tourers might consider adding a fuel bladder or planning more frequent stops.

Pricing and Value

Here’s a breakdown of pricing and value considerations:

Region Starting Price (Approx.)
USA $13,495 USD
UK £11,595 GBP
India (CBU) ₹12.05 lakh
Australia AUD 20,490

Compared to other factory bobbers or low-slung cruisers, the 2022 Bobber offers premium features, performance, and British craftsmanship at a very competitive price.

Customization Options

One of the biggest appeals of the Bobber is how easily it can be personalized:

🔧 Official Triumph Accessories

  • Fox adjustable rear shocks

  • Vance & Hines performance exhaust

  • Leather saddlebags

  • Shorty fenders and bar-end mirrors

  • Heated grips and cruise control kits

🛠️ Aftermarket Favorites

  • Bobber-style ape hangers

  • Custom exhausts (Zard, British Customs)

  • Solo spring seats

  • Tail tidy kits

The modular design means you can go from clean retro to full-on punk rock custom in a weekend.

Pros and Cons

Let’s break down what works and what could be better.

✅ Pros

  • Aggressive yet elegant styling

  • Accessible torque and smooth engine

  • Adjustable ergonomics

  • Great build quality and attention to detail

  • Highly customizable platform

❌ Cons

  • Not ideal for two-up riding (no pillion setup by default)

  • Small fuel tank limits range

  • Footpegs scrape early when leaned aggressively

  • No cruise control stock (but available as accessory)

Still, if you’re buying it for what it is—a retro-modern solo cruiser—the Bobber delivers in spades.

Real Owner Testimonials

Here’s what real-world riders say about owning the 2022 Bobber:

"Gets more attention than any Harley I’ve owned. Sounds raw and rides like a dream." — Jamie, U.K.

"This is the most characterful modern bike I’ve ridden. Pure soul." — Alex, Germany

"Built mine into a café-bob hybrid. Can’t stop staring at it. It’s addictive." — Arun, India

Most owners praise the balance of beauty, grunt, and simplicity—and note how easy it is to form an emotional connection with this bike.

FAQs About 2022 Triumph Bonneville Bobber

1. Is the 2022 Bobber good for beginners?
Not ideal for absolute beginners due to weight and torque, but manageable for intermediate riders with confidence.

2. Can you ride with a passenger?
Not in stock form. A pillion seat and footpegs can be added as accessories.

3. Does it have cruise control?
Not standard, but cruise control is available as a factory accessory.

4. Is it reliable for daily use?
Yes, Triumph’s modern engines are known for reliability and easy maintenance.

5. What's the top speed of the Bobber?
Approx. 170–180 km/h (105–112 mph). It’s more about the ride than outright speed.

6. What are the service intervals?
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles), with minor checks in between.

Final Verdict

The 2022 Triumph Bonneville Bobber is a masterclass in blending heritage style with modern performance. From the torque-rich engine to its jaw-dropping stance and top-tier finish, it’s a bike that feels as good as it looks.

It’s best suited for solo riders who value experience over practicality, and design over tech overload. If you’re looking for a soulful ride with real presence on the road, the Bobber could be your perfect partner.