If you’re looking for a Bonneville to ride, the second generation (T140) can be very appealing as they’re typically cheaper than the T120 and they have some quality upgrades: 100 more cubic centimeters of displacement, a front disc brake, and an additional gear in the transmission. This was Triumph’s way of combating the onslaught of advancements from Japan – but it turns out that Triumph was arguably a bigger obstacle to their own success than Honda, Suzuki, et al. In ’73, Triumph was only able to survive (as Norton-Villiers-Triumph) because of a government loan, but at the end of the year workers at the Meriden factory held a sit-in to protest the announced closure of their plant.
By the late 70s, the Bonnie had been gifted a rear disc brake and a new cylinder head, plus Amal Mk 2 carbs. For more on the 140V, check out this Buyer’s Guide from Sump Publishing.
This example is listed on behalf of the seller’s friend, who kept it in his living room for the last 10 year. Before it was put into storage, the bike got new master cylinders and tires, and it just got a “complete service to make it road ready.” Find this Bonnie for sale in Port Washington, New York for $5,200 here on Craigslist.
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