Triumph Bonneville T120R Roadster 1966 - Specifications & Review
Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 713495 |
|---|---|
| Category | Sport |
| Make | Triumph |
| Model | Bonneville T120R Roadster |
| Year | 1966 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frametype | Brazed lug, full-cradle, single downtube |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Frontbrakesdiameter | 203 mm (8.0 inches) |
| Frontsuspension | Telescopic fork, hydraulic damping. |
| Fronttyre | 3.25-19 |
| Rake | 26.0° |
| Rearbrakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 178 mm (7.0 inches) |
| Rearsuspension | Swing arm, 2 Girling dampers |
| Reartyre | 4.00-18 |
| Seat | Dual seat, black and gray |
| Wheels | Wire spoked. Dunlop tyres. |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 71.0 x 82.0 mm (2.8 x 3.2 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Multi-plate, wet |
| Compression | 8.5:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | Twin, four-stroke |
| Fuelsystem | Carburettor. Amal monoblock carburettor |
| Gearbox | 4-speed |
| Ignition | Lucas K2F auto-advance Magneto |
| Power | 46.00 HP (33.6 kW)) @ 6500 RPM |
| Topspeed | 185.0 km/h (115.0 mph) |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Chain |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | White/red |
|---|---|
| Electrical | 12-volt electrical system |
| Instruments | Smiths Magnetic gauges |
| Starter | Kick |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 165.0 kg (363.8 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 9.46 litres (2.50 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 127 mm (5.0 inches) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.2788 HP/kg |
| Seatheight | 775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
About Triumph Bonneville T120R Roadster 1966
1966 Triumph Bonneville T120R Roadster: A Classic Sport Motorcycle
Step back in time to the golden age of motorcycling with the 1966 Triumph Bonneville T120R Roadster, a stunning representation of British engineering and design. Positioned firmly in the sport category, this motorcycle captured the hearts of enthusiasts with its combination of style and performance. With its iconic lines and vibrant color options—especially the eye-catching white and red scheme—the Bonneville T120R remains a sought-after classic, embodying the spirit of freedom and adventure that motorcycle riders crave.
At the heart of the Bonneville T120R lies a robust 649.00 ccm twin-cylinder, four-stroke engine that delivers an exhilarating 46 horsepower at 6500 RPM. This powerful engine propels the bike to a top speed of 115 mph, making it a true contender on both city streets and open highways. The 8.5:1 compression ratio, coupled with the Amal monoblock carburettor and Lucas auto-advance magneto ignition, ensures a lively throttle response. Riders will appreciate the smoothness of the 4-speed gearbox and the reliability of the chain final drive, allowing for an engaging and spirited ride that is both thrilling and accessible to enthusiasts of all skill levels.
The Bonneville T120R is not just about raw power; its design and engineering showcase a thoughtful approach to rider comfort and handling. The brazed lug, full-cradle frame is complemented by a telescopic fork with hydraulic damping in the front and a swingarm with Girling dampers at the rear, providing a balanced and stable ride. The drum brakes, both front and rear, offer reliable stopping power, while the 775 mm seat height accommodates a wide range of riders. With a weight of 165 kg, it strikes an excellent balance between agility and stability, making it an ideal choice for spirited rides or leisurely outings.
#### Pros and Cons of the 1966 Triumph Bonneville T120R Roadster
Pros:
- Classic Styling: The Bonneville's vintage design and vibrant color options make it a head-turner at any gathering, appealing to both collectors and casual riders.
- Strong Performance: The potent twin-cylinder engine delivers excellent acceleration and a top speed that satisfies the thrill-seeker in every rider.
- Comfortable Ride: With its ergonomic design and well-balanced suspension, the T120R provides a comfortable riding experience, whether navigating city streets or embarking on longer journeys.
Cons:
- Drum Brakes: While reliable, the drum brakes may not provide the same stopping power and feel as modern disc brakes, which could be a concern for performance-oriented riders.
- Kick Start Only: The absence of an electric starter means riders must rely on the classic kick-start mechanism, which can be less convenient, especially for newer motorcyclists.
- Limited Fuel Capacity: With a fuel tank capacity of only 9.46 liters, longer rides may require more frequent stops for refueling, particularly for those looking to push the bike's limits on extended journeys.
In conclusion, the 1966 Triumph Bonneville T120R Roadster is a motorcycle that encapsulates the essence of classic motorcycling. Its blend of performance, comfort, and timeless aesthetics ensures that it remains a beloved choice for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just beginning your journey, the Bonneville promises a riding experience that is as exhilarating as it is nostalgic.