VS
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T and 1947 Indian Bonneville are both iconic 1940s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T from United Kingdom was powered by a 649cc OHV twin producing 34hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 180.0kg (397 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1947 Indian Bonneville, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1200cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 40hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 248.0kg (547 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T from United Kingdom was powered by a 649cc OHV twin producing 34hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 180.0kg (397 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1947 Indian Bonneville, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1200cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 40hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 248.0kg (547 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
Specifications Comparison
| 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T | 1947 Indian Bonneville | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 649 cc | 1200 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 158 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 180.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 193.0 kg | 268.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 670 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1947 Indian Bonneville, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T and very difficult for the 1947 Indian Bonneville — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T
The 1949 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T is a 649cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Triumph's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T Profile →About the 1947 Indian Bonneville
Indian released the 1947 Indian Bonneville in 1947 with a 1200cc SV V-twin powerplant making 40hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1947 Indian Bonneville Profile →