Triumph Bonneville Bobber vs. Speedmaster

Same 1200 twin. One solo head-turner, one built to cruise.

Both share the 1200 twin, 16-inch spoked wheels and the same fork and brakes. The real difference is how you ride them: the Bobber is a low, tough solo bike, the Speedmaster is the touring-minded sibling with a passenger seat.

Bonneville Bobber, Triumph's studio picture

Choose the Bobber if…

  • You ride solo and want the look.
  • You want the lighter bike, by 33 lb.
  • You like quick, punchy riding around town.
Bonneville Speedmaster, Triumph's studio picture

Choose the Speedmaster if…

  • You want to bring someone along.
  • You like a relaxed position between cruiser and standard.
  • You ride longer days and like a bike that flows through bends.

Which one fits your riding style?

Here's where the difference shows up on the road.

Around town

Both are low and easy to manage. The Bobber is 33 lb lighter, and it turns heads everywhere: one reviewer had the passenger in the next car roll down the window to ask about it.

The difference: The Bobber gets the looks.

A Bonneville Bobber on a lakeside road, photographed by Triumph

Weekend back roads

Reviewers call the Bobber point-and-squirt and keep being surprised by how well it corners. The Speedmaster flows from one bend to the next.

The difference: The Bobber is punchy. The Speedmaster is smooth.

A Bonneville Speedmaster on a desert road, photographed by Triumph

Riding with a passenger

The Speedmaster has rider and passenger seats. The Bobber is built as a solo bike, with Triumph's signature floating seat.

The difference: Two-up, choose the Speedmaster.

What's actually different?

These are the specifications you'll notice on the road.

2026 specificationBobberSpeedmaster
Engine1200cc twin1200cc twin
Power77 hp77 hp
Torque78 lb-ft78 lb-ft
Front suspensionShowa 47 mm cartridge forksShowa 47 mm cartridge forks
SeatsNot listedRider and passenger seats
Weight551 lb wet584 lb wet
Seat height27.2 to 27.6 in27.8 in

2026 U.S. models. Specifications and MSRP from Triumph.

Bobber or Speedmaster?

They start at the same MSRP and share the engine, so it comes down to how you'll ride.

If you ride solo and want the bike that stops people in the parking lot, the Bobber is the one.

If you want to cruise, take longer trips or bring a passenger, the Speedmaster is the more versatile choice.

Our advice: Think about who's riding with you. That usually decides it.

The best way to decide is to sit on both, back to back. We'll have them side by side for you.

The Bobber and Speedmaster at SCM

Get info on this bike

Your bike

Rather talk? (714) 256-6700Open today until 6

By sending this, you agree that we can reply about this bike by call, text or email, and that we may send you occasional email news and offers. You can unsubscribe any time. Msg & data rates may apply. We use your details as our privacy policy explains.