LOT 314

1970 Triumph 649cc T120R Bonneville Registration no. not registered Frame no. AD 39288 T120R Engine no. AD 39288 T120R

Sold for £5,750 inc. premium

Lot 314

1970 Triumph 649cc T120R Bonneville

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|22 April 2023, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1970 Triumph 649cc T120R Bonneville
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. AD 39288 T120R
Engine no. AD 39288 T120R

As the 1960s dawned, Triumph's larger twin-cylinder models remained recognisably similar to the first Speed Twin of 1938. 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 racer's favourite since its launch, 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, arriving at what aficionados consider its ultimate specification with the launch of the 1968 model. By this time the frame had been sorted and 12-volt electrics standardised, but welcome improvements included shuttle-valve fork internals, independently adjustable ignition points, Amal Concentric carburettors, and a long overdue twin-leading-shoe front brake. For the next couple of seasons the Bonnie continued essentially unchanged, before the disastrous launch of the 'oil-in-frame' models in November 1970 precipitated the collapse of the entire BSA-Triumph Group.

Belonging to the last Bonneville generation built before BSA-Triumph switched to the Umberslade Hall-designed oil-in-frame range, this example was imported from the USA and still carries its Los Angeles licence plate. No history is known but the Bonnie appears in original condition. The vendor has checked the machine mechanically but left it untouched cosmetically. Recommissioning is advised before further use. The machine is offered with USA title (West Virginia) and Assignment of Certificate of Title to a UK-based owner dated 2004.
Offered with key

Footnotes

All lots are 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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