Highlights
- Just one owner from new
- Original bill of sale, V5C and owners handbook
- Tastefully modified by the vendor
The Appeal
Originally intended for the American market, the Bonneville became a staple of Triumph’s range and you can still ride away from a Triumph dealership on one. That’s exactly what the owner of this example did in 1977, and they loved it so much that they kept it ever since.
After two years of regular use, the vendor decided they wanted something unique and set about customising their bike. We’re informed that every nut, bolt, washer and bracket was either chrome or cadmium plated. Alloy wheels were fitted, along with twin front discs, the front forks were uprated / painted and the frame was chromed.
A different tank and seat were fitted, as were shorter mudguards, bespoke side panels, big bore exhaust pipes, Koni rear shocks, K&N style air filters. The mechanicals were reportedly overhauled which included a rebore, regrind, larger cams and new clutch assembly with heavier springs. Mk 2 Amal carbs were installed, with chrome outer casings.
The result? - A tastefully customised bike which still looks, sounds and rides really well. If you’re looking for a ‘70s Bonneville replete with bespoke flourishes, this may well be the bike for you.
The History and Paperwork
- Acquired brand new by the owner from Park Road Motorcycles, Southampton back in 1977
- Used regularly in standard form for two years
- Customised by the vendor, both mechanically and cosmetically
- Spent 38 years off the road, carefully stored in the vendor’s garage
- Revived and running well with minimal effort
- We understand that owing to a DVLA computer system upgrade in the 1980s, this bike’s registration number is no longer recognised
- After contacting the Triumph Owners’ Club, they found that the DVLA does have an inactive record for the bike which apparently means that the next owner should be able to register it using the original V5C
- Offered without current MOT
- A collection of assorted paperwork accompanied the bike
- Original bill of sale, owners manual and parts manual
- Correspondence from the Triumph Owners’ Club, along with the vendor’s membership information
The Condition
- Now delightfully patinated following years its many in storage
- Still in very good condition considering its age
- Non-standard tank painted in a bespoke scheme with red pinstriping
- Some of the plated items have deteriorated ever so slightly, although this is not especially noticeable
- No signs of structural corrosion to the frame, which has clearly been protected by that fact it was chrome plated
- Looks to be straight, with no evidence of accident damage
- Sits upon attractive alloy wheels
- Complete with lights plates and mirrors for road use
- The grips, pegs and seat upholstery are not excessively worn
- All the instrumentation and switchgear seems in good order
The Mechanics
- 750 cc parallel twin - rebored, reground larger cams
- Five-speed gearbox
- Reportedly sounds great through the big bore exhaust system
- Koni rear shocks
- K&N style air filters
- Awoken from hibernation and seemingly running well
- After unseizing various components, it started on the second kick after 38 years!
- We recommend a mechanical overhaul before regular road use is resumed - although we understand the bike to be in working order
Summary
It isn’t often you get the chance to acquire a ‘70s Triumph that’s had just one owner from new. The fact that this one was customised in period makes it even cooler to us. It’s truly unique, so be sure not to miss the chance to own it.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
