1971 Triumph 750cc T120/T140 Bonneville

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.

This Triumph Bonneville was purchased by the private vendor 17th June 2013 from a Mr Coulthard of Leighton Buzzard, who had acquired the machine 17th April 1999. Originally a 650cc T120 model, it has been fitted with a circa 1973 Triumph T140 740cc engine (it is believed the original engine failed and that Mr Coulthard installed the current unit). The V5C document has been amended to reflect the change of engine.

Mr Coulthard advised the current owner that the machine (in its current guise) has been fitted with a Nourish crankshaft, lightened valve springs and electronic ignition, and that it may have received new cams. However, none of these works is documented, hence close inspection is advised. Smartly presented, the machine would nevertheless benefit from detailing, including careful cleaning of some pitting.

On 29th July 2025, Vintage & Classic Motorcycles of Hanslope, Buckinghamshire serviced the machine, as evidenced by their invoice number '604' on file. Works carried out included the following:

• Cleaning the fuel tank
• Removing, stripping, ultrasonically cleaning and rebuilding the carburettors
• Replacing the intake link pipe
• Replacing spark plugs
• Replacing the fuel tap
• Replacing footrest rubbers

On 11th September 2025, Vintage & Classic Motorcycles serviced the machine again (see invoice number '612' on file). Works carried out included the following:

• Removing and cleaning the oil filter
• Refitting the oil filter and changing the oil
• Running-up the engine
• Adjusting the carburettors
• Inspecting the indicators and headlamp

On 20th October 2025, Vintage & Classic Motorcycles' serviced the machine (Invoice 628 on file) including:

• Check electrics and rectify indicators and headlamp not working. Trace fault to poor connection test all ok Deliver bike back to home address

Offered with:

• V5C
• 2025 Service and works invoices
• Gov.UK MoT History printout – last MoT'd 3 Sep 2019 at 16,268 miles – the odometer now displays 16,336 miles – indicating minimal use in recent years.
• HPi Report
• 2017 MTS Classics receipts for servicing and welding of an indicator bracket.
• Various undated receipts 'RJM Classic Motorcycles' (while in the ownership of Mr Coulthard) for various works.
• 2017/2018 MoT certificates.

The vendor is only selling due to an ongoing knee injury.
Offered with key.