1969 Triumph Bonneville

First registered in 1969, this lovely Triumph Bonneville is one of three motorcycles we’re selling from the same chap. (He’s also selling a Norton and a Velocette Venom, both of which are just as nice as this...)

Finished in a vibrant red and silver colour scheme, this fast British twin looks meaty and imposing, which is presumably exactly the look Norton was aiming for. Nicely presented, it’s in a very good condition and could be used and shown without disappointing its new owner in either arena.

Best of all, it, like Duncan’s other two motorcycles.

*checks calendar* Yes, Christmas has come early.

The fuel tank and mudguards are really the only ‘bodywork’ the ‘bike has and they’re all in great shape with no damage and a nice finish to them. Duncan has allowed the paintwork to mellow in the two decades he’s owned it; he’s a ‘ride ‘em long and often’ kind of chap, and has no time for unnecessary polishing.

That said, the chromework looks to be in great shape and even components like the rear springs, which are almost always rusty and cracked, are good. This has clearly been a well-loved machine.

The chromed wire wheels also look terrific and are fitted with a Dunlop tyre on the rear and an Avon on the front. Both have plenty of tread left on them.

Flaws? Well, if we’re nit-picking then the badge on the fuel tank has seen better days (#9), as has the fuel filler cap (#13).

The Triumph seat is in great shape. Plump and comfortable with no damage, there’s room for two on there with ease and there’s a chrome bar behind for nervous pillions to hold on to.

Instruments comprise a speedometer and a rev counter, plus an ammeter on the headlamp. All are by Smiths.

We’re really struggling here but a fastidious owner might want to replace the rubbers on the foot pegs (#20) and gear-lever (#39).

The seller last started it last summer; sadly, ill health has precluded using it since then. He tells us that it has always “run well, and has been very reliable” and “sounds great!”.

He fitted ‘Norton’ flat handlebars, which he much prefers to the standard ones. The motorcycle is otherwise standard.

The engine and frame present very well, with only the odd area of surface corrosion on some of the fasteners detracting from its otherwise excellent appearance. There are no oil leaks.

The Bonneville comes with some old MoT certificates as well as a number of invoices for work that’s been carried out over the years.

Has any other motorcycle featured in more top-flight films than the Bonneville? From Hannibal to X-Men through to Vanishing Point and Snatch, the Bonneville seems to be the Go To classic motorcycle for Hollywood. Indeed, the IMCDB lists 12 pages of credits.

Duncan tells us that of the three ‘bikes he’s selling, it is this, the Bonneville that always draws a crowd. He’s right when he says it’s got “great kerb appeal” and “looks fast, even when it’s still”.

Even more amazing is just how affordable bona fide legends like this are. One of the most iconic ‘bikes of its generation and presented in good order, we estimate that this lovely motorcycle will only go for somewhere between £6,000 and £9,000.

Astonishing, isn’t it?

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular bike is located with us at The Market HQ near Abingdon; we are open weekdays 9am-5pm, to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.