The Classic Ride: 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R
So, picture this: a ravishing 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R, a bike that was cradled by its original owner from the sunny state of California straight to its acquisition by the selling dealer in 2024. What makes this little beauty tick? A robust 649cc parallel twin engine hooked up to a four-speed transmission, all wrapped in a stunning Hi-Fi Scarlet finish. Now, if that doesn’t rev your engine, let’s dive into the details!
Key Features
- Kick starter
- Dual Amal carburetors
- Chrome dual exhaust
- Drum brakes
- Wire-spoke wheels
- Headlight and taillight
- Two-up black seat
Now, before it even made it to the showroom, this Bonneville got a bit of TLC. The team changed the oil, gave the carburetors a thorough inspection, and adjusted those all-important valves. It’s now primed and ready for the next adventure, and it’s being offered with spare parts and a squeaky-clean California title. Sounds tempting, right?
Stunning Aesthetics and Details
The bike boasts that eye-catching Hi-Fi Scarlet paint job, accented with silver and gold stripes, not to mention chrome fenders that gleam like diamonds. You’ve also got classic elements like a headlight, those nostalgic “eyebrow” tank badges, and stylish black rubber knee pads. The seat? Oh, it’s a plush black vinyl two-up affair, complete with folding passenger footpegs and both center and side stands for maximum convenience. But hey, every vintage bike has its quirks; the seller has noted a few scratches and a repair on the rear seat—nothing that takes away from its charm, though!
Wheels and Suspension
Let’s talk about the wheels. She’s got 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheels laced to chrome-finished rims, all shod in Dunlop Gold Seal K70 tires. When it comes to suspension, it features a conventional telescopic fork wrapped in black rubber gaiters, paired with dual shocks mounted on the swingarm. And for braking? Drum brakes, baby! Each end equipped, with the front sporting that snazzy twin leading-shoe design.
Instrumentation and Performance
Up front, the chrome handlebar carries a left mirror and chrome control levers. The Smiths instrumentation ensemble includes a 10k-rpm tachometer and a 150-mph speedometer—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to know how fast they’re going on a classic? Tucked in the headlight bucket is a Lucas ammeter. The odometer? It shows just 12,000 miles—a mere whisper in the life of this beauty!
Power and Reassurance
Now herein lies the heart of the machine: the 649cc OHV parallel twin, rated at a respectable 52 horsepower straight from the factory. It sports dual Amal carburetors, a kick starter for that classic touch, and a dual exhaust system with chrome-finished pipes that will make you weep with joy. Recent work in November 2024 involved an oil change and a meticulous inspection and reassembly of the carburetors; those valve clearances? Adjusted just right.
Matching Numbers
Here’s an exciting bit: the engine stamping—“T120RDU66255”—doubles as a VIN match with the stamp found on the frame. Yes, we’ve got a photographic record to back that up, so you can rest easy knowing the lineage is intact.
Fueling Dreams
Power is efficiently transferred to the rear wheel by a right-side-shifted four-speed transmission and a sturdy drive chain, equipped with a black upper guard for that sleek look! And if you’re worried about the fluids? They were all changed in key preparation for the sale.
Extras Worth Noticing
As if that wasn’t enough to sweeten the deal, the sale also includes an extra set of air cleaners. Always nice to have a few spare parts on hand—after all, who wouldn’t want a little backup when they’re out cruising?
Lasting Impressions
Finally, let’s not forget about the six-character black and yellow California license plate, which still carries a charming 1971 registration sticker. That’s right—the seller claims it hasn’t been registered since then. Vintage nostalgia at its finest! Now that’s a slice of bike history you can take pride in.
So, there you have it—an overview of a stunning classic that combines nostalgia with genuine riding thrill. Are you ready to take the plunge and make this 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R yours? Let the adventure begin!