1970 Triumph Bonniville 650 T120R $6,500 or Best Offer

1970 Triumph Bonniville 650 T120R $6,500 Or Best Offer!

Up for Sale is a highly desirable 1970 Triumph Bonneville 650 T120R Matching Numbers, widely considered by collectors to be the absolute pinnacle year for the classic Meriden Bonnevilles. This is the final year of the iconic frame-mounted separate oil tank design before Triumph transitioned to the oil-in-frame layout, making it one of the most sought-after iterations of the legendary 650cc twin.

I have personally owned and cared for this motorcycle for the last 32 years. It has been part of a private collection and always stored in a climate-controlled facility, ensuring it has been preserved in excellent environment-controlled conditions. This is a very strong-running bike with great compression that reliably starts on the first or second kick.

Recent Demo Ride Video

See and hear this classic Triumph run! Click the link below to watch the recent riding video:
Watch the 1970 Triumph Demo Ride Video Here

(Mobile App Users: If the link above is not clickable, please copy and paste this URL into your browser: https://youtu.be/_2ip-f3twas)

Vehicle Specifications

Cosmetic Condition & Finish

The bike features an older repaint that was completed prior to my 32 years of ownership. It remains in very nice, highly presentable condition with a deep shine. Because it has been enjoyed and ridden over its lifetime, there are a couple of small nicks and chips in the finish, all of which are clearly highlighted in the close-up photos.

Recent Service & Maintenance Completed in 2026

To prepare the bike for its next custodian, the following maintenance and repairs were recently completed:

• Carburetors: Ultrasonically cleaned and completely rebuilt using genuine Amal parts.
• Fuel System: Fitted with new fuel petcocks, new fuel lines & new fuel filters.
• Forks: Upgraded with new fork boots (10 yr) and fresh, new Maxima 20W fork oil.
• Fluids: Complete fluid service including new engine and primary oil, and new transmission oil.
• Cables: Installed a brand new tachometer cable.

Honest Disclosures for Vintage Collectors

• Originality & Custom Touches: Although I am not a high-level expert on pure factory originality. You will notice that the foot peg brackets, small front engine mounts, and lower fork legs have been chromed, which was a popular custom style back in the day. Additionally, the cylinder head bolts are Allen/hex style. These were installed by the previous owner over 32 years ago, likely when the top end (pistons and rings) was serviced. This top-end work was exceptionally well done, as proven by the bike's outstanding compression and strong mechanical performance still to this day.
• Tires: The tires date back to when the bike was originally purchased 32 years ago. They have plenty of tread, but the rear tire shows sidewall cracking due to age. If you plan to ride it regularly, a fresh set of rubber is recommended.
• Valve Adjuster Caps, ignition Cover: As shown in the photos a few items are not stock to my best knowledge, these include the valve adjustment covers, points cap and air filter covers are not the the "domed" style.
• Horns: When the bike was originally purchase by me it was and is still absent of horns, Horn button seems frozen and may need repair or replacement.
• Vintage Character: As is typical and expected with these classic British parallel twins, oil drops will be seen on the garage floor the morning after a spirited ride.
• Front tank tab/bracket: The left front tank tab which the front tank bolt secures to has broken approx 1/2" off the end. The tank is still secure as half the bolt hole remains, would be easy weld fix, but presents no problem currently as tank is secure at this point

Payment Terms (Strictly Enforced)

Please read carefully before bidding. There are no exceptions to these security measures:

• In-Person Cash Transactions: If paying in cash, the transaction MUST take place entirely inside local bank lobby. The funds will be verified and deposited directly with the bank teller before the motorcycle, keys, or clear title are handed over.
• Wire Transfer Transactions: If paying via wire transfer, the bike and title will be released immediately once my financial institution confirms the funds have permanently cleared.

Terms of Sale & Shipping

• Location: Vernon Hills, IL
Shipping/Pickup: The buyer is entirely responsible for vehicle pickup or shipping arrangements. I am happy to coordinate with your chosen transport carrier and assist with loading. Please review the photos and video carefully to appreciate this iconic machine. Sold as is where is no warranty expressed or implied. Please feel free to message me with any questions.