1965 Triumph Bonneville

T120R DU20270

Clear

Full Dean Collinson restoration, enough said!! 1965 Triumph 650cc Bonneville Frame no. T120R DU20270 Engine no. T120R DU20270 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. A new alloy cylinder head with inlet ports splayed wide to accommodate twin carburetors had become available as a tuning aid early in 1958 and it was, chiefly, this innovation that enabled the specially prepared T110 to so far eclipse the performance of the standard version. Triumph lost no time in capitalizing on its technical breakthrough, announcing a new model equipped with the splayed 'head and twin Amal carburetors in September 1958: the Bonneville. Testing a T120 'Bonnie' in June 1961, Motor Cycling found that Triumph's range-topping sportster possessed abundant vitality. 'With exceptional top-end performance goes extraordinary vigor and tractability at low and medium speeds - a combination which makes it perhaps the fastest point-to-point roadster produced in Britain today.' The machine offered here, of 1965 vintage, was subject to a full restoration by marque expert Dean Collinson. I have owned several of Dean’s restorations and have just got back my T120C from him and can personally attest to the quality of his work and his meticulous attention to detail with a view to reliability and longevity. The engine was fully rebuilt and the transmission was checked and a new clutch was installed. Attention was given to all cycle parts with a rebuild, refurbishment or restoration to suspension front and rear, brakes and the entire electrical system. Cosmetically, the bike was fully refurbished with a fresh powder-coated frame and new paint to tank, fenders and side panels. Clocks were rebuilt and all brightwork was freshened. New cables and odds and ends finished off the rebuild. The bike runs extremely well. It starts easily, idles smoothly and has good, responsive power from the 650cc twin. The gearbox shifts perfectly with a good clutch. Brakes and suspension are excellent and the tires are in excellent shape with plenty of tread remaining. This older restoration is holding up very well. The paint is excellent, as are the finishes on the fenders, panels, frame, wheels, etc. This is a fine example of Triumph’s Bonnie, ready to ride or show. For additional information and photos, go to GloryMotorworks.com/motorcycle-sales