Bonneville

[Scout63]

I think this bike is simply gorgeous.  Wonder what the reserve is? Mtiberio any insights on the build?

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1971-triumph-bonneville-t120r-2/

[majstevetrevor]

I think this bike is simply gorgeous.  Wonder what the reserve is? Mtiberio any insights on the build?

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1971-triumph-bonneville-t120r-2/

Yeah that’s a beauty.

[JJ]

Agreed...that is a Meriden beauty!!

Among my rider friends up here, we always have a discussion about what would be better, a restored, road-worthy, classic / vintage Merident Triumph....OR....a brand new 2022 Bonneville Black....Tough choice when you think about it...

[SportsterDoc]

I have only ridden a right hand shift once...several attempts at rear braking resulted in downshifts!

At least this one is left hand shift:

[larrys]

When I was running Brits forty years ago, the first oil-in-frame Triumphs, you couldn't give them away. The late '73 and '74 Triumph 750 twins were the best. Meriden changed the rear frame geometry a bit and got the seat height down to where it should be, 750cc motor, 5 speed, front disc, and the shifter was on the proper side... My '74 Bonneville was second favorite next to my '69.
That's a pretty nice example of that model. The hopped up motor is a two edged sword. The stock motors didn't live all that long without a major overhaul and if you hopped them up, their lives were even shorter.
Larry

[Scout63]

I have only ridden a right hand shift once...several attempts at rear braking resulted in downshifts!

At least this one is left hand shift:

I love the right-hand shifting bikes.   The Norton upshifts down, which just makes sense under my foot.  I have to admit that I don't use the rear brake as much though.  After getting used to the bike it now just feels natural even when switching back and forth with the Guzzis and BMWs.

[moto-uno]

 Larrys'  previous remarks are so completely correct . Worked at a Triumph dealership (as a mechanic) throughout the middle to late 70's and
his remarks mimic my experiences and memories to a Tee !   Peter

[Road Rocket]

Yes, the 71 is the least desirable model year...You could buy two nice ones for what it sold for..
 I'm the guy with record holding Triumph land speed racers...Production class means the exhaust , carbs and air intake system needs to look stock but can be modified internally, same for the engine. The engine has the mentioned aftermarket cams, a so called ported head and likely 11-1 high dome pistons..The speed says it makes about 40 rear wheel hp at Bonneville with a typical air density of 5500 ft on a warmer day..compared to about 46 hp at  500 ft elevation.....A well tuned stock 650 Bonneville makes just about 40 hp at  the rear wheel..