Triumph Bonneville T120
82/100 Overall
65 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Triumph Bonneville T120 vs Triumph Bonneville T140
Triumph Bonneville T120 scores 82/100 overall against Triumph Bonneville T140 on 81/100. On the road: 65–72. As classics: 98–90. Overall result: Triumph Bonneville T120.
Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Triumph Bonneville T140
81/100 Overall
72 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Triumph Bonneville | Triumph T140 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 7 | Triumph T140 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 7 | Triumph T140 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 7 | Triumph T140 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Triumph Bonneville |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 8 | Triumph Bonneville |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Triumph Bonneville if…
you value lightness, accessible mechanical simplicity and the sound and feel of a classic British twin.
Choose the Triumph T140 if…
you want classic Bonneville character with 750cc torque, disc brakes and more everyday usability than earlier versions.
Background
History
Triumph Bonneville
The Triumph Bonneville T120 was produced from 1959–1973 and used a 649cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Triumph T140
The Triumph Bonneville T140 was produced from 1973–1983 and used a 744cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Triumph Bonneville
- Its production span in this library runs from 1959 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 649cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, character.
Triumph T140
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 744cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Triumph Bonneville
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph Bonneville T120. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Triumph T140
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph Bonneville T140. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Triumph Bonneville
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Triumph T140
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Triumph Bonneville
Rivals to the Triumph T140
Final result
The verdict
Triumph Bonneville T140 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Triumph Bonneville T120 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.