Triumph Bonneville TT Special 1964 - Specifications & Review
Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 950340 |
|---|---|
| Category | Sport |
| Make | Triumph |
| Model | Bonneville TT Special |
| Year | 1964 |
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 | 3.50-19 |
| 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 |
| Wheels | Wire spoked |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 71.0 x 82.0 mm (2.8 x 3.2 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Multi-plate, wet |
| Compression | 11.2:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches) |
| Driveline | Constant-mesh, right-foot shift |
| Enginedetails | Twin, four-stroke |
| Fuelsystem | Carburettor. Amal monobloc carburettor |
| Gearbox | 4-speed |
| Ignition | AC energy transfer (ET) |
| Power | 52.00 HP (38.0 kW)) @ 6500 RPM |
| Topspeed | 185.0 km/h (115.0 mph) |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Chain |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Gold/Alaskan White |
|---|---|
| Electrical | Lucas RM19 alternator, 6-volt electrical system |
| Starter | Kick |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 165.0 kg (363.8 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 15.14 litres (4.00 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 127 mm (5.0 inches) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.3152 HP/kg |
| Seatheight | 775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
About Triumph Bonneville TT Special 1964
1964 Triumph Bonneville TT Special: A Classic Sport Bike Reimagined
The 1964 Triumph Bonneville TT Special stands as a testament to the British motorcycle legacy, skillfully blending classic styling with cutting-edge engineering of its time. Positioned in the sport category, this motorcycle was designed to carve through twisty roads and showcase performance on the race track. With its sleek lines and iconic tank design, the Bonneville TT Special is not just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of freedom and the exhilarating spirit of the 1960s. Riders of this era sought machines that offered both speed and style, and Triumph delivered with a model that quickly became a favorite among motorcycling enthusiasts.
At the heart of the Bonneville TT Special lies a robust 649cc twin, four-stroke engine that churns out an impressive 52 horsepower at 6,500 RPM. This powerplant is not just about numbers; it's about the visceral thrill of acceleration and the roar of the exhaust as you wind through the gears of its 4-speed gearbox. With a top speed of 115 mph, the TT Special is ready to satisfy the adrenaline junkie in every rider. Its high compression ratio of 11.2:1, combined with the Amal monobloc carburettor, ensures a responsive throttle and a satisfying punch when you twist the grip. The air-cooled engine, paired with an efficient chain final drive, promises reliability and performance, allowing riders to enjoy long stretches of open road with confidence.
Triumph equipped the Bonneville TT Special with a host of features that set it apart from the competition. The frame is a brazed lug, full-cradle design that offers stability and agility, complemented by a telescopic front fork with hydraulic damping and a swingarm rear suspension with Girling dampers. This combination provides a comfortable ride without sacrificing sportiness. The expanding drum brakes, while perhaps a nod to nostalgia, are effective and provide ample stopping power. Weighing in at 165 kg, the motorcycle strikes an impressive balance between power and weight, with a power-to-weight ratio of 0.3152 HP/kg. Moreover, the kick-starter and classic color options of Gold and Alaskan White enhance the vintage allure, making it a collector's dream.
Pros:
- Iconic Design: The classic styling and color options capture the essence of 1960s motorcycling culture.
- Solid Performance: The 649cc engine delivers a thrilling ride with impressive acceleration and top speed.
- Agile Handling: The combination of a lightweight frame and advanced suspension technology provides excellent maneuverability.
Cons:
- Drum Brakes: While adequate for the time, drum brakes may not match the stopping power of modern disc brake systems.
- Kick Starter: The absence of an electric start may deter some riders looking for convenience.
- Limited Fuel Capacity: With a 15.14-litre fuel tank, longer rides may require more frequent refueling stops.
In summary, the 1964 Triumph Bonneville TT Special is not just a motorcycle; it’s a piece of history that continues to captivate riders and collectors alike. Its blend of performance, aesthetics, and heritage makes it a standout model that embodies the spirit of adventure and classic motorcycling.