Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The March Timed Online Auction on Thursday the 27th of March. Background:
The Triumph Bonneville hardly needs an introduction given its legendary status and enduring popularity as Triumph’s long term flagship model. Named after the salt flats where Triumph captured many speed records, the 'Bonnie' was introduced in 1959 and has, in various forms, remained in production on and off until the present day.
The 'T120 TT Special' was designed for US export only, with US importers requesting a more off-road orientated machine to match customer demand. Many were used as 'desert sleds' or for off-road racing, with the stripped-down machine benefiting from a more aggressive camshaft, high compression pistons, straight-through unsilenced exhaust pipes and no lighting equipment. Evil Knievel was perhaps the TT’s most famous owner as he demonstrated when, in 1968, he used one to jump Caesar’s Palace fountain, breaking many bones in the process.
The TT came in different forms depending on whether it was destined for East Coast or West Coast Triumph distributors, with the East Coast machines being much rarer.
The Bike:
This 1966 'TT Special' was built at Triumph’s Meriden works on 11th October 1965 and despatched on 15th October 1965, carrying frame and engine number T120CDU27885. It was then shipped to the East Coast importer, TriCor and as such was built in East Coast-spec, distinguishable by its painted rather than polished aluminium mudguards.
Having spent the majority of its life in the US prior to shipping to the UK and undergoing a full restoration, the results of this work are stunning and it is clear that there was an emphasis on originality. The paintwork is flawless, and the chrome shines brightly, a testament to its restorer. It still retains its original engine and frame and runs beautifully.
Not UK-registered, but supplied with a NOVA certificate and all duties/ taxes paid, should the new owner wish to register the machine in the UK.
Location: Worcestershire
Seller: Private
Photography: Professional
