A Classic Triumph Reborn: The 1966 Bonneville T120R
Picture this: a 1966 Triumph Bonneville T120R, a motorcycle that embodies the spirit of the swinging sixties, expertly refurbished and now showcased with pride. Acquired by its current caretaker back in 2020, this classic ride showcases an air-cooled 649cc parallel-twin engine, coupled with a four-speed transmission. But there’s more than just the mechanical prowess; this bike wears a freshly repainted white fuel tank, adorned with striking gold-outlined orange stripes. It’s a looker, no doubt, and here’s why it might just give even your beloved Mercedes-Benz a run for its money in the nostalgia department.
The Details That Catch the Eye
This beauty comes equipped with a kick starter, dual Amal carburetors, a two-into-two exhaust system, and even fork gaiters—yes, it’s as cool as it sounds. The drum brakes, wire-spoke wheels, and chrome-finished fenders add a touch of gleaming elegance, completing the package with both center and side stands. And let’s not forget the two-up seat and those stylish black rubber knee grips.
Vintage Styling Meets Modern Upgrades
Flash forward to 2022, and this Triumph has seen key updates with the primary cover, petcock, fuel lines, carburetor gaskets, and spark plugs all replaced. They’ve also given it a good oil change—both engine and gearbox—and it’s all there for you as it’s offered with service records and a clean Michigan title in the name of the seller’s family trust. It’s like time travel—except cooler and twice as fun.
Designed to Impress
That fuel tank ain’t just a tease; its gleam catches every passerby’s eye with its gold decals on those sleek black side panels. And should your significant other fancy a ride, the folding passenger foot pegs have you covered.
Interesting fact: The handlebars are styled in gleaming chrome, sporting a Smiths 125-mph speedo, plus a never-miss-a-beat tachometer, all nestled within the headlight bucket. It’s like cockpit engineering for the easy rider in you.
That Sweet Ride Quality
Flaunting chrome-finished rims sized 19 inches in the front and 18 in the rear, these beauties are wrapped in trusty Dunlop Gold Seal K70 tires. Suspension wise, you’ve got a telescopic fork with accordion gaiters and a pair of shocks attached to the swingarm. The ride’s smoother than a cup of Earl Grey on a Sunday afternoon.
The Engine: More Than Muscle
Revving under the hood is that magnificent 649cc OHV parallel-twin, complete with a kick starter and the ever-appreciated dual Amal carbs. The two-into-two exhaust system, chrome-finished, of course, provides symphonic output at a factory-rated 47 horsepower.
- Kick starter for that authentic vintage feel
- Brand-new petcock, fuel lines
- Fresh carburetor gaskets and spark plugs
Transmission Trivia
Switch up your ride with the right-side-shifted four-speed transmission, delivering power via a reliable drive chain. And yes, the transmission oil got its 2022 makeover too, ensuring smoother shifts that glide like a ballerina on wheels.
Comparison: While many drool over the dependability of a Mercedes-Benz, the thrill of a classic Triumph motorcycle could steal their thunder in a heartbeat.
All the Details Count
The engine case, stamped with number T120RDU25503, reassures you that this VIN matches the clean Michigan title. To gaze upon the frame stamp is to see modern history etched in metal, and photos of it are part of the gallery showcase.
In the end, if the 1966 Triumph Bonneville T120R doesn’t get your motor running, we might need to check for a pulse. This is nostalgia on two wheels, polished perfection, and ready to bring the ’60s back to life with every twist of the throttle.