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LOT 228

1971 Triumph 649cc T120R Bonneville Registration no. YWX 971L Frame no. NG36448 Engine no. NG36448 T120R

Sold for £4,140 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 228

1971 Triumph 649cc T120R Bonneville
Registration no. YWX 971L Frame no. NG36448 Engine no. NG36448 T120R

1971 Triumph 649cc T120R Bonneville
Registration no. YWX 971L
Frame no. NG36448
Engine no. NG36448 T120R

To cater for local tastes, T120R and T120C versions of the Bonneville were offered in the USA, the former having a more raised handlebar when compared to its European counterpart while the latter catered for American riders' passion for off-road motorcycling. The T120R designation was later applied to Bonnevilles sold in other markets, including the UK, where it was available with either high or low handlebars and either the 3- or 4-gallon fuel tank depending on the year.
Along with BSA-Triumph's other 650cc twins, the Bonneville was re-launched for 1971 with the new oil-carrying frame. Despite its fine handling qualities, the chassis ran into criticism because of its tall seat and was revised three times before a lower version was standardised for 1972 together with a thinner seat. The new models' botched introduction meant that within two years the entire BSA-Triumph Group was in severe financial difficulty, and the proposed closure of Triumph's Meriden factory led to the workers occupying the plant in September 1973. By this time the arrival of the 750cc T140 Bonneville had signalled that the 650's days were numbered, and the workers' occupation effectively sealed its fate.

A 1972 model built in October 1971, this T120R Bonneville was sold to the Museum in April 2005 as a non-runner and subsequently restored (sales receipt available). An older restoration, the machine is offered with sundry bills, some expired MoTs, and old V5/V5C documents.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

This lot is offered with a Triumph Owners Club dating letter. The frame number NG36448 T120R.

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  • 19 October 2019, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
  • 20 October 2019, 09:00 - 17:00 BST

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