First introduced in 1959 -- its name commemorating a land-speed record run at the Bonneville Salt Flats -- the Triumph Bonneville has become an icon of the motorcycle world.
100% Matching Numbers:
1966 Triumph Bonneville
T120R Hot Rod!
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Steve Mc Queen owned, rode, and raced many T120R Bonnevilles, and ever since many of the rich and famous have opted for a Bonneville as their motorcycle of choice. The original bike's design is so timeless, so quintessential, so incredibly beautiful, that the Bonneville was resurrected in 2001 and is still in production to this day. Style never gets old.
When it comes to a classic Bonneville, it's hard to outdo a '66 T120R. The engine got an all new, 2-1/2 lbs lighter crankshaft, a new 1-1/8" shouldered roller main bearing, new "Red Spot" double valve springs, and the previous high-performance cams as standard equipment. Additional oil holes were drilled, and the compression ratio was raised to 9:1, which, combined with the larger 1-3/16" Amal Monobloc carburetors, resulted in one peppy engine.
1966 also marked the beginning of the process of replacing all the old British Standard (Whitworth) nuts & bolts with Unified (American) threads. Yay!
The particular 1966 Triumph Bonneville R120R featured here is quite special in that it features many custom touches. I bought it 2-1/2 years ago from a Triumph enthusiast and collector who started to downsize due to old age and retirement. Now that I'm in my 60s, I'm doing the same. Can't keep 'em all!
The bike is 100% matching numbers.
The previous owner spent $3,010.50 on an engine and transmission rebuilt, a new clutch, a new chain, and new wheel bearings, among other things.
Since the bike came with a no-battery magneto ignition and was difficult to start, I had British Triumph gury Tom Robinson from BBC Triumph in Ventura convert the system and install a new battery, hidden under the seat, all of which cost me roughly another $1,000.00.
Just recently I splurged on a set of "gum-dipped" 4-ply Firestones, arguably the finest vintage tires money can buy. They are correctly sized 3.25-19 in front and 4.00-18 out back. Combined with new rim bands, tubes, and installation, this set me back $431.00. These tires have 0 miles on them.
Looking at this bike as it presents itself today, it's hard to believe that it is, in fact, 50 years -- half a century -- old already
Cockpit features the chromed headlight that houses the Lucas ammeter, light switch, and control light. Instrumentation is very basic with large 120mph speedometer. Chrome finishes are everywhere, and please note the cool brass fittings and correct gray Amal handlebar grips.
The bike carries the original drum brakes on both corners. Simplicity in its purest form.
Side stand, chain guard, air cleaners, and megaphone mufflers feature beautiful chrome finishes.
I had the seat redone in genuine and quite sumptuous Mercedes-Benz leather, which cost me another $310.00.
Rear lighting is provided by a Bates-style #8101 taillight from the 1960s.
This bike comes with a clear California title in my name, current registration, current California license plate, paperwork, and even assorted literature.
Original Lucas headlight contains 2 bulbs: a 2W parking/city light, and a 48/48W low-high beam driving light.
Clean engine without any broken fins. Polished engine cases with finned inspection cover.
Super-expensive custom alloy oil tank and custom air cleaner housings.
Hagerty, which is very realistic in its assessment of values, lists the current value of a 1966 Bonneville as follows:
- #1 condition: $20,000
- #2 condition: $16,000
- #3 condition: $12,000
- #4 condition: $ 8,100
I would value the condition of this 50 year-old bike as a #3+, yet I have set my reserve even below #4 condition.
Opportunity knocks; are you ready to answer?
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TERMS OF SALE
- By bidding in this auction, you declare that you have read and accept the Terms of this Sale as outlined below.
- If you have any questions, please ask them before you bid. After the auction has ended, the sale is final.
- Please, only bid on this bike if you are serious about owning it and have the necessary funds readily available!
I require a $500 deposit to be paid via PayPal within 24 hours of the end of the auction and the balance to be paid via bank wire transfer (or in cash) within a week, unless other arrangements have been agreed upon during the auction. - This Triumph comes with a clear California Certificate of Title in my name. It is currently currently registered and insured.
The bike is sold "as is, where is" with no warranty stated or implied. Mileage stated above is the current odometer reading. License plate shown for photographic purposes only.