‘John’s Bonnie’
1974 Triumph T140V
Triumph’s way of addressing the growing competition from Japan, and demand for larger displacement options from the US market.
Last weekend, we bid farewell to another classic from our workshop. This 1974 T140V, which we affectionately named ‘John’s Bonnie,’ was delivered to us for a full mechanical restoration and moderate visual reconditioning in early 2024. Our assignment was to bring it back into spec for its owner to enjoy some trouble-free miles and showcase it at a few local events. We delivered a one-kick head-turner that runs as well, if not better, than it did when it left the factory.
Wherever possible, we recondition and reuse original parts that meet our key criteria—originality and functionality—during any level of restoration we undertake. Take, for instance, the Smiths gauges that exhibited signs of age and wear. After a thorough cleaning process and the replacement of worn components, such as a new set of rubber boots, bezels, and brackets for both the speedometer and tachometer, these gauges were restored to like-new condition. This commitment to preserving original parts not only maintains the character of the motorcycle but also ensures that each component functions reliably.
The T120, originally featuring a 650cc engine, underwent an upgrade and was increased to a larger 750cc displacement with the introduction of the T140V model. The ‘V’ designation in its name refers specifically to the noteworthy addition of a 5th gear, which enhanced its overall performance and riding experience.
Original Lucas 'Made in England' switch gear is costly compared to available reproductions, but we retained the switch blocks to rebuild and restore the internals.
Excerpt from Cycle Worlds 1974 road test is a great read. The 1974 Bonneville recives praise all around and is toted as the best Bonneville to date, yet also highlights at the begining of the article that “Triumph should have built the 750 Bonnie five years ago’.
The 1974 T140V, in many ways, symbolized the last gasp of the "Golden Age" of British motorcycle engineering. By the mid-1970s, British motorcycles, including the Bonneville, were starting to fall behind the competition from Japan. While it is true that these ’70s Bonnevilles represented the turbulent times of the era for British manufacturers, it's hard to forget the visceral experience one has when aboard a ’70s Bonnie. It’s always bittersweet to let the well-behaved ones leave the workshop, but we know it's back with the owner who is going to truly enjoy riding this bike. We look forward to having it back in the shop for its next service.
For more high resolution pictures of this bike click here.
