1963 Triumph Bonneville T120

1963 Triumph Bonneville T120

standard60sUnited Kingdom

The 1963 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 packs a 649cc OHV twin engine with 46hp into a standard motorcycle package from Triumph.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV twin
Displacement
649 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
46 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque
52.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
71.0 × 82.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Amal carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel single cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
180 km/h (112 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
170 kg (375 lbs)
Wet Weight
184 kg (406 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1400 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

The 1963 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 was introduced by Triumph as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in United Kingdom, it represented Triumph's vision for the twin-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1960s.

At the heart of the 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 sits a 649cc OHV twin engine producing 46 horsepower at 6500 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by 2x Amal carburetors. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Weighing 170 kg (375 lbs) dry, the 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 uses a steel single cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 achieves a claimed top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 is considered a desirable collector motorcycle that has appreciated significantly in value over the decades. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Triumph motorcycling from 1960s.

Known Issues

  • Oil leaks from primary chaincase
  • Lucas electrics (nicknamed Prince of Darkness)
  • Sludge trap cleaning essential
  • Amal carburettor wear and jetting issues

Fun Facts

  • The 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Triumph
  • The 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 was produced in Triumph's United Kingdom facilities
  • The 1963 Triumph Bonneville T120 featured a steel single cradle frame typical of 1960s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
8/10

Resources & Parts