1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville

1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville

standard70sUnited Kingdom

Born in 1973, the 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville is a 744cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 49hp from Triumph.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV twin
Displacement
744 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
49 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque
54.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
76.0 × 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
Single disc
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
175 km/h (109 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
185 kg (408 lbs)
Wet Weight
198 kg (437 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1410 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

In 1973, Triumph launched the 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville — a standard motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from United Kingdom, it combined United Kingdom engineering with standard motorcycle appeal.

The 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville is motivated by a 744cc OHV twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 49hp at 6200 rpm. Breathing through 2x Amal carburetors and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 5-speed transmission with chain final drive.

The chassis employs a steel single cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 185 kg (408 lbs) dry, the 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville offers a manageable riding experience with a 1410 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville achieves a claimed top speed of 175 km/h (109 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 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Triumph motorcycling from 1970s.

Known Issues

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

Fun Facts

  • The 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville was produced in Triumph's United Kingdom facilities
  • The 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville featured a steel single cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts