LOT 199
1970 Triumph 650cc T120R Bonneville Frame no. BD 42570 T120R Engine no. BD 42570 T120R
Sold for US$15,525 inc. premium
Lot 199
1970 Triumph 650cc T120R Bonneville Frame no. BD 42570 T120R Engine no. BD 42570 T120R
The Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction|23 January 2020, 12:30 PST|Las Vegas, Caesar's Entertainment Studios
1970 Triumph 650cc T120R Bonneville
Frame no. BD 42570 T120R
Engine no. BD 42570 T120R
Frame no. BD 42570 T120R
Engine no. BD 42570 T120R
Considered by most to be the last real 'Bonnie', the 1970 model was the ultimate example of everything that the Bonneville had become. It was beautiful and fast and, according to Cycle Guide, 'the most commonly seen and most-sought after piece of merchandise by teenagers... The Bonneville has a great deal of personality. The more you ride it, the more you like it.'
Although problems continued to plague the factory, 1970 was a peak sales year for Triumph in the United States. And, although no major changes were made to the Bonneville, there were several minor improvements. New crankcase halves and engine breathing changes helped improve oil tightness. Front engine mounting plates were changed to bolt on units to facilitate easy engine changes and the Concentric carburetors were improved once again. Triumph also toned down the bright colors of the late sixties to an elegant burgundy (Astral Red) and silver scalloped tank. Fenders were painted to match.
This Bonneville can only be described as 100-point. Stock. Accurate. Original. The motor and transmission were blueprinted by expert Randy Baxter's shop, Baxter Cycle in Marne, Iowa. The frame, cycle parts and bodywork were 'perfected' by the seller, himself an experienced multi bike and car restorer over many years, with the sole goal of hitting that 100-point goal. He wrapped the inner mating surfaces of his wrenches and screwdrivers with tape to avoid metal to metal contact is an example of his desire for an unmarked restoration.
This is surely a truly outstanding example the like of which is unlikely to be offered anytime soon. Period.
Although problems continued to plague the factory, 1970 was a peak sales year for Triumph in the United States. And, although no major changes were made to the Bonneville, there were several minor improvements. New crankcase halves and engine breathing changes helped improve oil tightness. Front engine mounting plates were changed to bolt on units to facilitate easy engine changes and the Concentric carburetors were improved once again. Triumph also toned down the bright colors of the late sixties to an elegant burgundy (Astral Red) and silver scalloped tank. Fenders were painted to match.
This Bonneville can only be described as 100-point. Stock. Accurate. Original. The motor and transmission were blueprinted by expert Randy Baxter's shop, Baxter Cycle in Marne, Iowa. The frame, cycle parts and bodywork were 'perfected' by the seller, himself an experienced multi bike and car restorer over many years, with the sole goal of hitting that 100-point goal. He wrapped the inner mating surfaces of his wrenches and screwdrivers with tape to avoid metal to metal contact is an example of his desire for an unmarked restoration.
This is surely a truly outstanding example the like of which is unlikely to be offered anytime soon. Period.
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.
Additional information
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