Bonneville T120

■ New from £11,000 ■ Used from about £7000

This is the hub of the 1200cc range. The larger engine has about 80bhp and is tweaked, like its smaller sibling, to pass emissions laws. It is 7kg lighter than last year’s bike, though still weighs 236kg. Despite that, Maria and Butch liked it, flowing around the oft-damp Leicestershire B roads. “It inspires confidence, the throttle is smooth, the clutch light, and my body position is just right,” said Maria. “I just feel on edge when I come to a stop – it doesn’t hide its weight at slow speed.” Butch said the power wasn’t so noticeable until we were on faster roads, and even then only when we wanted to accelerate in the taller gears, or to overtake. The T120 will also make a good long-distance bike thanks to the larger engine, and is better for two-up journeys. It costs more than the 900cc bikes, but with alloy wheels and more details mean you have to look at what you’re getting.

Who would it suit? A rider wanting the pinnacle of a modern classic.