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The 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 and 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R represent two chapters in Triumph's storied history.
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 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 46hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 | 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 649 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 46 hp | 46 hp |
| Torque | 52.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 170.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 184.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Triumph machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 laid the groundwork with 46hp, while the later 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R pushed output to 46hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Triumph collection.
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 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R
Introduced in 1968, the 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R features a 649cc OHV twin engine producing 46hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1968 Triumph Bonneville T120R Profile →