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The 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 and 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL are both iconic 1950s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 from United Kingdom was powered by a 649cc OHV twin producing 46hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 40hp at 5500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1950s bikes represent the golden age of British motorcycling and early Japanese innovation, with well-maintained examples commanding premium prices.
The 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 from United Kingdom was powered by a 649cc OHV twin producing 46hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 883cc of OHV V-twin Ironhead power, delivering 40hp at 5500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1950s bikes represent the golden age of British motorcycling and early Japanese innovation, with well-maintained examples commanding premium prices.
Specifications Comparison
| 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 | 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 649 cc | 883 cc |
| Power | 46 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 52.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 220.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 has the edge thanks to more power (46hp vs 40hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
About the 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120
The 1959 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 packs a 649cc OHV twin engine with 46hp into a standard motorcycle package from Triumph.
Full 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 Profile →About the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL
Introduced in 1957, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL features a 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine producing 40hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Profile →