1968 Triumph T120 Bonneville 650cc ‘Ex-Works’

The Bonneville T120 was Edward Turner's last production design at Triumph. The new motorcycle was conceived and developed so quickly that it was not included in the 1959 Triumph catalogue. With a 64cc. parallel-twin (two-cylinder) engine. the T120 was based on the Triumph Tiger 110 and was fitted with the Tiger's optional 3/16 inch Amal monobloc carburettors as standard and included the model's high performance inlet camshaft. Launched in 1959.
Triumph described the T120 as 'the best motorcycle in the world' and it was aimed mainly at the US market where enthusiasts were demanding extra performance.
T120 DU56717 was built on the 19th January. 1967 as a TR6R Trophy for the Experimental Department at Triumph. The foreman at the time was Alan Barrett. brother of Ron Barrett. In the following six months. it was used as a development machine. ridden by chief tester. Percy Tait and testing upgrades to the T120 Bonneville.
Thus it became a T120 and was registered as such when purchased by the legendary Ron Barrett. Amongst other development work at Triumph. he was also given his own mini-department for the preparation of all press and publicity machines. Thus we might fairly describe this as a proper Alan and Ron Barrett bike.
It is Ron's name his name that appears not only on the vehicle licence application but also on the green log book. It was also invited and displayed at the 50 year 'Bonneville Celebration' at Heritage Motor Centre. Gaydon in August 2009. A proper Ron Barrett bike. with associated documentation and in good order. Very few of these exist and we are delighted to be able to present. from a static/private collection. one here today.