Triumph T120 R Bonneville 1962 - Specifications & Review
Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 684342 |
|---|---|
| Category | Sport |
| Make | Triumph |
| Model | T120 R Bonneville |
| Year | 1962 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frametype | Duplex frame |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Frontbrakesdiameter | 203 mm (8.0 inches) |
| Frontsuspension | Telescopic fork, hydraulic damping. |
| Fronttyre | 3.25-18 |
| Rearbrakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 178 mm (7.0 inches) |
| Rearsuspension | Twin shocks. Girlings 100 lb/ft spring tension, adjustable pre-set. |
| 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 | 8.5:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | Twin, four-stroke |
| Fuelsystem | Carburettor. Amal monobloc 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 | Flame orange/Sliver Sheen |
|---|---|
| Comments | Road model with low exhaust pipes. |
| Electrical | Lucas RM19 alternator |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 178.0 kg (392.4 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 15.14 litres (4.00 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 127 mm (5.0 inches) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.2584 HP/kg |
| Seatheight | 770 mm (30.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
About Triumph T120 R Bonneville 1962
1962 Triumph T120 R Bonneville: A Classic Sport Icon
The 1962 Triumph T120 R Bonneville stands as a timeless testament to the British motorcycle's golden era. This model was designed for the spirited rider craving a blend of performance and style, effectively positioning itself within the sport category. With its rich heritage and distinct aesthetic, the Bonneville quickly became a staple in the motorcycle community, attracting both enthusiasts and casual riders alike. Its flame orange and silver sheen paint scheme captures the eye, while its low exhaust pipes add a touch of rebellion - a nod to the freedom of the open road.
At the heart of the T120 R Bonneville lies a robust 649cc parallel twin engine that produces a commendable 46 horsepower at 6,500 RPM. This four-stroke powerhouse, with its 8.5:1 compression ratio, delivers exhilarating acceleration, allowing the motorcycle to reach top speeds of up to 115 mph (185 km/h). The Amal monobloc carburettor ensures a smooth fuel delivery, while the Lucas K2F auto-advance magneto ignition system provides reliable starts and performance. Coupled with a four-speed gearbox and a multi-plate wet clutch, the riding experience is both engaging and responsive, making every twist of the throttle a thrilling adventure.
The T120 R Bonneville's design incorporates functional elegance with its duplex frame and dependable suspension system, featuring hydraulic damping telescopic forks at the front and adjustable twin shocks at the rear. Braking is handled by expanding drum brakes, offering solid stopping power with a front brake diameter of 203mm and a rear of 178mm. Weighing in at a manageable 178 kg (392.4 pounds) and with a seat height of 770 mm (30.3 inches), this classic motorcycle is accessible to a wide range of riders, enhancing its appeal. With a fuel capacity of approximately 15 liters, it supports extended journeys, making it an ideal companion for both daily commutes and weekend escapes.
Pros:
- Timeless Design: The classic aesthetics combined with vibrant color options make the Bonneville a head-turner.
- Strong Performance: With a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2584 HP/kg, it offers impressive acceleration and top speed for its class.
- Rider-Friendly: The adjustable rear suspension and comfortable seat height cater to a diverse range of riders, enhancing comfort and control.
Cons:
- Drum Brakes: While adequate for its time, the drum brakes may feel less responsive compared to modern disc braking systems.
- Limited Storage: The minimalist design leaves little room for storage, making it less practical for long-distance touring without additional gear.
- Vibration: The parallel twin engine can produce noticeable vibrations at higher RPMs, which may detract from the overall riding experience for some riders.
In summary, the 1962 Triumph T120 R Bonneville is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a piece of history that continues to inspire the spirit of adventure in riders everywhere. Whether you're a collector or a casual enthusiast, this classic beauty is sure to ignite your passion for two-wheeled freedom.