Bobber motorcycle, how to choose?

Summary

• The essentials about bobbers
• What is a Bobber?
• Three iconic bobber models
• Bobber motorcycle comparison
• Our verdict: which bobber to choose?
• Summary table
• FAQ — Frequently asked questions

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The essentials about bobbers

The motorcycle market is full of models for all tastes, whether choppers, sportsters, dirt bikes or other types of vehicles. No matter your riding style, you'll likely find the motorcycle that suits you.

If you're drawn to the vintage aesthetic and the particular feel of classic motorcycles, then a bobber might be for you. Before you start, it's essential to understand exactly what a bobber motorcycle is and to know the best models currently available.

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What is a Bobber?

Purists will often claim that a true bobber must be fully customized, but in this article, we'll focus on production models. Bobbers are stripped-down motorcycles, with a solo seat and mid-mounted footpegs. Their retro appearance is a key distinguishing factor.

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Three iconic bobber models

1. Harley Davidson Street Bob

The 2020 version of the Harley-Davidson Street Bob starts from €14,860. Its 1,746 cm³ V-twin engine produces 86 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. This model replaced the Harley Dyna in 2017 and features a revised chassis, suspension, and engine. Although it moves away from the motorcycle club style, the Street Bob offers a very enjoyable riding experience.

2. Indian Scout Bobber

Sold slightly under €14,700, the Indian Scout Bobber is equipped with a 1,133 cm³ V-twin engine, developing 100 horsepower and 97 Nm of torque. With a liquid-cooled engine and a resolutely modern design, it is also recognized for its attractive aesthetics, particularly appreciated by fans of the Indian brand.

3. Triumph Bonneville Bobber

The Triumph Bonneville Bobber stands out among bobber motorcycles with its 1,200 cm³ parallel twin engine, which generates 77 horsepower and 106 Nm of torque. It is offered around €14,300. Its sleek look and comprehensive equipment, such as traction control and ABS, make it a versatile and popular model.

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Bobber motorcycle comparison

There isn't a big price difference between the Indian Scout Bobber and the Triumph Bonneville Bobber, while the Harley-Davidson Street Bob is slightly more expensive. If you're looking for a good deal, the Indian or Triumph might be more economical options.

In terms of performance, all three motorcycles offer powerful and enjoyable riding, but the Indian stands out with its robust engine. As for equipment, the Triumph surpasses its rivals with standard features like different riding modes and a slipper clutch, which are absent from the other two models. Moreover, the Bonneville's adjustable seat makes it more suitable for taller riders.

In terms of style, each model remains true to its manufacturer's image. If you're a fan of Harley, Indian, or Triumph, you might fall in love with your favorite brand's motorcycle. However, choosing the best bobber shouldn't be limited to a matter of looks or reputation.

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Our verdict: which bobber to choose?

Given that bobbers are generally expensive, it's crucial to choose the motorcycle that best suits you. After comparing the Harley-Davidson Street Bob, the Indian Scout Bobber, and the Triumph Bonneville Bobber, we can conclude that the Triumph stands out for its comfort and versatility, even if each model has its strengths. The Harley and the Indian undoubtedly have their charms, but if you're looking for a balanced motorcycle in terms of comfort and performance, the Bonneville might be the most judicious choice.

In any case, no matter which model you choose, these three motorcycles are true aesthetic successes and will offer a memorable riding experience. Once you've chosen your ride, be sure to maintain it well to fully enjoy its performance.

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Summary table

Model	Features
Harley-Davidson Street Bob	From €14,860; 1,746 cm³ V-twin; 86 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque; replaced the Harley Dyna in 2017.
Indian Scout Bobber	Slightly under €14,700; 1,133 cm³ V-twin; 100 horsepower and 97 Nm of torque; liquid-cooled engine.
Triumph Bonneville Bobber	Around €14,300; 1,200 cm³ parallel twin; 77 horsepower and 106 Nm of torque; traction control and ABS, adjustable seat.

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FAQ — Frequently asked questions

What is a bobber motorcycle?
Bobbers are stripped-down motorcycles, with a solo seat and mid-mounted footpegs. Their retro appearance is a key distinguishing factor.

Which is the most affordable model of the three?
There isn't a big price difference between the Indian Scout Bobber and the Triumph Bonneville Bobber, while the Harley-Davidson Street Bob is slightly more expensive. If you're looking for a good deal, the Indian or Triumph might be more economical options.

Which bobber is most suitable for taller riders?
The Bonneville's adjustable seat makes it more suitable for taller riders.

Which one has the most robust engine?
In terms of performance, all three motorcycles offer powerful and enjoyable riding, but the Indian stands out with its robust engine.

Which bobber to choose in the end?
The Triumph stands out for its comfort and versatility, even if each model has its strengths. If you're looking for a balanced motorcycle in terms of comfort and performance, the Bonneville might be the most judicious choice.