Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

Vintage and Classic Motorcycle Importers

1970s Triumph T120R Bonneville 650 cc Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

The Triumph T120R Bonneville 650 cc, produced around 1970, represents the pinnacle of the air-cooled, pre–oil-in-frame Bonneville lineage. It retains the classic twin carb setup, 650cc parallel-twin engine, and iconic styling cherished by UK enthusiasts.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition)

Condition	Estimated Value (GBP)	Example External Source
Project / Restoration Non-running or unrestored, minimal documentation.	£3,500 – £5,000	Bring-a-Trailer (US) sale shows unrestored numbers-matching example for reference; UK projects likely slightly higher.
Roadworthy / Presentable Running bike with correct trim but some wear.	£6,000 – £8,500	2023 H&H Classics auction: early-’60s T120R sold for £10,350 (matching-numbers, restored).
Restored / Excellent Concours restoration, perfect trim, matching numbers.	£9,000 – £12,000+	UK dealer listings currently show T120R Bonnevilles asking between £8,900 and £11,995.

Notes: USA Bring-a-Trailer sale is used for context only; UK pricing draws from the matching-numbers H&H result and current listings, which suggest a strong collector-level market.

Value Influencing Factors

Matching numbers & originality: Frame and engine sequence, original badging, correct tank, and instruments.
Condition: Engine compression, cleanliness of internals, trim quality, paint and chrome condition.
Documentation: V5C, ownership history, restoration records and MOTs support pricing.
Emotional appeal: The T120R is seen as the “ultimate classic Bonneville,” especially among UK collectors.
Market conditions: Popularity peaks in spring/summer and classic show seasons.

Conclusion

In the UK today, expect the T120R to range roughly from £3.5k–£5k for projects, £6k–£8.5k for rider-quality examples, and above **£9k up to £12k** for top restorations. Exceptional documented examples may fetch even more.

Sources (plain text):
H&H Classics – 1961 T120R Bonneville sold for £10,350 (matching-numbers, restored, 12 July 2023).
Car & Classic – 1970 T120R Bonneville asking listings from £8,999 to £11,995.
Bring-a-Trailer – 1970 numbers-matching example sold in US for context only.

All Valuations