1971 Triumph Bonneville

T120RV GE27446

Salvage

1 of only 200 built! 1971 Triumph Bonneville Engine Number: T120RV GE27446 Frame Number: T120RV GE27446 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 recognizably 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 sportster. This superbly restored T120R Bonneville is a true rarity. With the advent of the oil in frame design, the company introduced a 5-speed gearbox for the 1972 model year, in answer to the Japanese competition. However, about the last 200 manufactured for the 1971 model year slipped through with the 5-speed and the ‘V’ designation in the engine/frame number. The bike offered, from the correct June 1971 build-date, has been fully restored. Purchased from an elderly gentleman who decided he couldn’t ride any more after a minor accident and stored it for some years, this numbers-matching bike was a great basis for resurrection. Completely dismantled and rebuilt with no element untouched, much of the bike simply needed a thorough clean up, but further attention was given to the top end of the engine, brakes, rear shocks, all bearings, new wheel rims, respoked and rebuilt. All electrical systems were attended to and work. The accident was a minor front-end collision bending the original forks and front wheel rim. Both of these were replaced, and the frame was checked for cracks and bends, but found to remain in excellent condition. As such the bike is offered with a clear salvage California title. The bike is in excellent riding condition, starting easily and running strong. Brakes work well, for a Triumph, and handling is excellent. This is a fantastic and rare find. A mechanically excellent Triumph Bonneville, beautifully presented and one of the most rare examples of the marque.