Highlights
- Race prepared by renowned specialist George Hopwood
- The vendor believes this bike has covered fewer than 15,000 miles from new
- Beautifully presented and equipped with a number of competition components
- The vendor points out that it is a matching numbers example
- Accompanied by numerous invoices for parts and the race preparation work
The Appeal
In 1955, at the helm of a 650cc Triumph, Texan motorcycle racer Johnny Allen set a world record at Bonneville Salt Flats, recording a maximum speed of 193 mph. To commemorate this incredible achievement and gain a foothold in the American market, Triumph launched the Bonneville, which remains a staple of the Triumph range, even today.
We’re delighted to offer this beautifully prepared 1961 T120 R which is a regular competitor at Swiss hill climbs. Acquired by the vendor in 2001 from Cotswold motorcycles in the UK, this Bonneville had just 13,059 miles on the odometer which we’re informed was the correct original mileage. It was subsequently sent to renowned specialist George Hopwood, who prepared it to period correct competition specification.
It’s in fantastic condition, with close attention having been paid to even the finest of details. The vendor informs us that it rides impeccably and performs strongly. If you've always wanted one of these legendary motorcycles, this matching numbers, race prepared, low mileage example is amongst the finest you’re likely to encounter.
The History and Paperwork
- Described by the vendor as 95% original
- Acquired in 2001 from Cotswold Motorcycles with a mere 13,059 miles on the odometer
- Now equipped with a reconditioned KMH speedometer, with 639 kilometres indicated
- The vendor informs us that the bike has covered around 650 miles since 2002
- After purchasing the bike, it was sent to George Hopwood, who set about preparing it to period race specification
- A hand-written invoice from George Hopwood details the work carried out in 2001
- Period logbook and UK V5C present
- Hand-written receipt of sale from 27th march 2001
- Used by the vendor at local hill climbs
- Swiss veteran registration
The Condition
- Beautifully presented
- Two-tone paintwork
- Rebuilt Smiths instruments
- New spokes and tyres
Instantly recognisable with its distinctive two-tone paintwork, the Bonneville is a fabulous looking bike and this example is no exception.
The paint looks stunning on the fuel tank, oil tank and frame, with no notable blemishes. All of the badging and decals look great, with no obvious deterioration. We couldn’t see any dents, damage or corrosion either, and the vendor assures us everything is in really nice shape.
The seat upholstery remains in nice condition and there’s little in the way of wear - which is no surprise given this bike’s low mileage and very limited use over the past couple of decades. All the chrome presents well as do the rubber grips and foot pegs. The vendor informs us that the tyres are new, and therefore they’re in great shape.
The Mechanics
- 650cc parallel twin
- Four-speed gearbox (right foot change)
- Rebuilt original K2F ‘red label’ Lucas Competition magneto
- Reworked head - three angle cut with new valves / guides
- Original race kit chopped Amal Monobloc carburetors with modified central float
- Thruxton front brake
- New battery fitted
While this Bonneville has been ridden sparingly over the years, the vendor informs us that it remains in very good mechanical order. It has competed at local hill climbs for a number of years and is apparently regarded as a very fast T120.
Upon close inspection of the engine and gearbox, you can see the immense quality and attention to detail from the extensive race preparation carried out by George Hopwood.
We’re informed that it rides impeccably, is properly fast even by modern standards and there are reportedly no faults.
Summary
A race prepared, matching numbers, early Bonneville T120 in fabulous condition both mechanically and cosmetically, this is not an opportunity to pass up.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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