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LOT 670

1971 Triumph 649cc T120 Bonneville Registration no. YWX 971L Frame no. HE30178 Engine no. T120 HE30178

Sold for £7,130 inc. premium
Lot 670

1971 Triumph 649cc T120 Bonneville
Registration no. YWX 971L Frame no. HE30178 Engine no. T120 HE30178

1971 Triumph 649cc T120 Bonneville
Registration no. YWX 971L
Frame no. HE30178
Engine no. T120 HE30178

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 saddle. 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. One of the last of the 650cc Bonnevilles, this matching-numbers example was restored in 2018 by RJM Classic Motorcycles and comes with invoices and correspondence relating to its restoration (perusal highly recommended). Additional documentation consists of a dating certificate and a V5C document. Last run in October 2020, this pristine machine is described by the private vendor as in 'as new' restored condition throughout. Although fitted with silencers in the earlier style, the machine also comes with the original pair of megaphone silencers also in 'as new' condition.

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

There are no megaphone silencers with this Lot. Please note, the Vehicle Registration Number is 'AKE 162J' and not as listed to the online and printed catalogue. The V5C will follow after the sale and there is no dating certificate with this Lot. Please click the link to view the walkaround video of Lot 670: click here

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