1 of only 200 built, 1971 Triumph 650cc T120RV 5-speed Bonneville

Description

1 of only 200 built

1971 Triumph 650cc T120RV 5-speed Bonneville

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 stayed in production for decades, the name resurrected in the firm’s new iteration.

Developments came thick and fast including unitary construction of engine and gearbox in 1963. As 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.

The motorbike offered

This 1971 Triumph 650cc T120RV Bonneville is a something of 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.

Owned by an aircraft mechanic for a couple of years, he purchased it from his neighbor and restorer of the bike. This matchng-numbers example is offered in good running condition, having had a full engine rebuild the previous owner with attention given to all cycle parts. The bodywork was professionally repainted in the original color. A very late 1971 model, manufactured in June of that year.

This is a fantastic and rare find; a mechanically sound Triumph Bonneville, beautifully presented and one of the rarest examples of the marque.