1970 Triumph Bonneville

T120R CD43983

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Perfectly restored! 1970 Triumph Bonneville Engine Number: T120R CD43983 Frame Number: T120R CD43983 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, it has always been the café racers’ favourite since its introduction, thanks to lusty acceleration and a top speed approaching 120mph, the Bonneville continued as Triumph’s top-of-the-range sportster. This fantastically, no-expense-spared T120 Bonneville dates from the highly desirable, collectable 1970. Considered by most to be the last real ‘Bonnie’, the 1970 model was the ultimate example of everything that the Bonneville had become. It was beautiful and fast and, according to Cycle Guide, “the most commonly seen and most-sought after piece of merchandise by teenagers… The Bonneville has a great deal of personality. The more you ride it, the more you like it.” Journalist, Peter Egan described the 1970 Triumphs as a cultural icon “…as much a part of the American scene as James Dean, ’51 Merc’s and Lucky Strikes.” Triumphs continued to win in all forms of competition from Ascot’s half mile to Malcolm Uphill’s Isle of Man Production TT win on a Bonneville the year before. Although problems continued to plague the factory, 1970 was a peak sales year for Triumph in the United States. And, although no major changes were made to the Bonneville, there were several minor improvements. New crankcase halves and engine breathing changes helped improve oil tightness. Front engine mounting plates were changed to bolt on units to facilitate easy engine changes and the Concentric carburetors were improved once again. Triumph offered an elegant burgundy (Astral Red) and silver scalloped tank. Fenders were painted to match. Fresh from a complete nut and bolt restoration, the bike offered here is in concours condition. A good solid numbers matching, 12,000 mile bike was the starting point. In cosmetically neglected condition, a general tidying up was the original idea. But, as these things often go, a stripped frame was checked for integrity and powdercoated. Attached to it, each and every cycle part was attached having been fully restored, refurbished or replaced to original spec. Original parts were used where restoration was prohibitive. Correct finishes were used throughout including all fasteners, brightwork and Hutchinson-sourced paint. Original wheels are refinished, re-laced at Buchanans. The engine was completely rebuilt to original spec from the sludge traps up. New carbs we installed. All of this work was carried out by a marque expert with numerous restorations to his name, many of which are Triumphs. The bike runs as perfectly as it looks. The engine starts easily, idles well and has good, responsive power. It shifts perfectly through a rebuilt transmission and good clutch. All cycle parts work perfectly with good rebuilt brakes and new suspension. The new electrical system operates as it should. This is a fantastic example of the best year for the quintessentially British motorcycle icon. It took about a year to restore at a considerable cost. This is a bike that would do well at any concours and could be ridden there.