Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition 1981 - Specifications & Review

Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 310847 |
|---|---|
| Category | Classic |
| Make | Triumph |
| Model | T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition |
| Price | US$ 4200. Prices depend on country, taxes, accessories, etc. |
| Year | 1981 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frametype | Twin Downtube Cradle. Oil in frame. |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakes | Single disc. Dual piston caliper. Hard chromed cast iron disk |
| Frontbrakesdiameter | 254 mm (10.0 inches) |
| Frontsuspension | Telescopic slider type |
| Fronttyre | 4.10H-19 |
| Frontwheeltravel | 170 mm (6.7 inches) |
| Rake | 27.0° |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc. Dual piston caliper. Hard chromed cast iron disk |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 254 mm (10.0 inches) |
| Rearsuspension | Twin Mazzochi Air-Assisted Shocks |
| Reartyre | 410H-18 |
| Rearwheeltravel | 89 mm (3.5 inches) |
| Trail | 113 mm (4.4 inches) |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 76.0 x 82.0 mm (3.0 x 3.2 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Wet multi-plate |
| Compression | 7.9:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 750.00 ccm (45.77 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | Twin, four-stroke |
| Exhaustsystem | Twin downswept with balance pipe, Dual silencers. |
| Fuelconsumption | 5.22 litres/100 km (19.2 km/l or 45.06 mpg) |
| Fuelsystem | Carburettor. Twin Bing 32mm CV Type 94 |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Greenhousegases | 121.1 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Ignition | Lucas Electronic |
| Lubricationsystem | Dry sump |
| Maxrpm | 7200 |
| Onequartermile | 13.700 seconds |
| Topspeed | 180.0 km/h (111.8 mph) |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Chain |
| Valvespercylinder | 2 |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Chromed Fuel Tank with air-brushed metalic blue styling strips and Side Covers |
|---|---|
| Comments | King/Queen seat with grey vinyl seat inserts. |
| Modificationscomparedtopreviousmodel | Differs from standard Bonneville in that the Fuel Tank is chromed and many extra alloy parts were polished. Custom paint airbrushed. The King/Queen seat set it apart from the standard Bonneville as well. |
| Starter | Electric |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 179.2 kg (395.0 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 18.00 litres (4.76 gallons) |
| Oilcapacity | 2.20 litres (0.15 quarts) |
| Overalllength | 2,223 mm (87.5 inches) |
| Overallwidth | 838 mm (33.0 inches) |
| Seatheight | 787 mm (31.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weightincloilgasetc | 199.6 kg (440.0 pounds) |
About Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition 1981
Introducing the 1981 Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition, a classic motorcycle that embodies the spirit of the British biking renaissance during the late 20th century. Positioned as a collector's item, this limited edition model not only stands out for its distinct aesthetics but also for its performance pedigree. With a price tag of approximately US$ 4200, depending on location and accessories, this machine is a coveted piece of motorcycle history that appeals to both seasoned enthusiasts and new riders looking to embrace the classic motorcycling lifestyle.
At the heart of the T140 ES lies a robust twin-cylinder, four-stroke engine with a displacement of 750cc, delivering an exhilarating top speed of 180 km/h (111.8 mph). Riders will appreciate the smooth, responsive power delivery, thanks to its 7.9:1 compression ratio and a finely-tuned carburettor system using twin Bing 32mm CV Type 94 units. The 5-speed gearbox allows for effortless shifting, making both city cruising and highway riding a joy. With a fuel consumption of 5.22 litres per 100 km (equating to an impressive 45.06 mpg), this motorcycle combines performance with efficiency, making it practical for both leisurely rides and longer journeys.
The 1981 Triumph T140 ES doesn't just perform well; it also boasts a host of features that enhance its riding experience. The visually striking chromed fuel tank, adorned with air-brushed metallic blue styling strips, makes a bold statement on the road. Comfort is paramount with the King/Queen seat design, featuring grey vinyl inserts that not only look stylish but also provide support for both rider and passenger. Technologically, the bike incorporates Lucas Electronic ignition for reliable starts, while the twin downtube cradle frame with oil in the frame enhances stability. Braking is equally impressive, with dual-piston calipers and hard-chromed cast iron discs at both front and rear, providing riders with confidence-inspiring stopping power.
Pros:
- Iconic design with limited edition appeal—perfect for collectors and enthusiasts.
- Smooth and responsive engine performance, offering an exhilarating ride.
- Comfortable King/Queen seating for long-distance cruising.
Cons:
- Classic technology may not appeal to riders seeking modern conveniences.
- Limited luggage options, which may restrict long-distance touring capabilities.
- Weight could be a consideration for newer riders or those looking for a lighter bike.
The 1981 Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a celebration of classic British engineering and style, ensuring that every ride is a memorable one. Whether you’re navigating through city streets or taking a scenic route, this motorcycle promises a blend of nostalgia and performance that few can rival.
