Property of a deceased's estate, 1966 Triumph 649cc T120 Bonneville

Registration no. NYA 63E (see text) Frame no. T120 DU43310 Engine no. T120 DU43310

Graced by one of the most evocative model designations in the history of motorcycling, the Triumph Bonneville owes its existence to record-breaking successes achieved on the eponymous Utah salt flats in 1958, when a Tiger 110 set a new 650cc production machine record of over 147mph. Launched at the Motor Cycle Show in September 1958, the production Bonneville remained recognisably similar to the first Speed Twin of 1938 for the next few years, as did Triumph's other large-capacity twins. Unitary construction of engine and gearbox was already a feature of the 350 and 500 twins though, and that innovation duly appeared on the 650s in 1963. The café racers' favourite since its introduction, thanks to lusty acceleration and a top speed approaching 120mph, the Bonneville continued in this new form as Triumph's top-of-the-range sports roadster. This collectible T120 Bonneville dates from 1966, by which time the handling problems associated with earlier versions had been sorted. Last taxed for the road in 2000, the Bonnie displays a total of 10 miles on the odometer, which may well be the distance travelled since its restoration. The machine is offered with pre-restoration photographs; Triumph Replacement Parts Catalogue; parts catalogue (missing covers); Triumph owner's workshop manual; and copy Real Classic magazine article. There is no registration document with this Lot. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the validity of the Vehicle Registration Number prior to bidding.