Triumphrat

02-14-2006

This is my first post so hello everyone.

I'm looking to get my feet wet with a first time purchase of a classic triumph. I’ve been scanning the typical outlets for deals and ran across a matching number 1973 Bonneville. I know it is not the most desirable collectable year but thought I’d like to get some input.

The bike has had: new chrome, including fenders, headlight nacelle and fork brackets. New exhaust pipes(pre 1970 style) and header pipes, external cartridge oil filter, Boyer electronic ignition, stainless master cylinder for front disc brake, instrument rebuild, new cables, new Hagon shocks, new mirrors, older style side covers and chrome air cleaners to look like pre 1970. Neutral is hard to find unless rolling. He said this is normal? VIN: T140VEH3XXXX

The pitfalls of this year bike? Since so much has been changed is this bike a good project year to invest money and time? I want to spend my hobbie time on building a bike but also want value at the end of the day. At what price? The guy wants $3,300.

Picture of Bike

[ This message was edited by: ironduke on 2006-02-17 09:40 ]

Slinky · 02-14-2006

That is beautiful, and someone obviously loved it..!

I would snap it up at that price, or at least offer him 3 grand. Cash talks.

Did the T140 ever have a drum rear brake?

tridentt150v · 02-14-2006

Yes, early T140's had a drum rear. Conical actually, good brake to, it actually works well.

Right hand gear change [the last of them, thats desirable to a diehard trumpy nut].

I would think that this bike would have the 728cc? motor. They went to the 744cc after this.

I can't remember if it was all in the bore or if the stroke was changed as well.

This is all off the top of my head so to speak, I'm at work and don't have my Triumph library handy.

Joe-Dirt · 02-14-2006

That is a beautiful bike! If it runs good, and is well sorted, which it appears to be, then go for it. The neutral thing you describe is fairly common on many types of bikes. That bike is made for the hills of West Virginia! :chug:

02-14-2006

thats a nice bike at a nice price. i have a problem with the neutral sometimes too and you have to watch for the "false" neutral between 3rd and 4th gear.

TRI-AL · 02-15-2006

You're CRAZY if U pass that thing up! If it's HALF as nice up close as the picture shows, I doubt U could go wrong- unless there is something "drastically" wrong with it! How many miles? Any smoke? Leaks ? (well, I mean "severe" ones) Tires look fine. Go 4 it! :wink:

02-15-2006

Thank You. Your input is invaluable to a guy looking to jump into the British world.

The milage is unknown as per the current owner. Are there any important questions I should ask him? Does this year pose any strange quarks I should be aware of?

I have to test drive this bike to see for myself.

It does have the amal carbs with no choke. He says it is hard to sart in the cold.

Made for the hills of WV - I like that.

[ This message was edited by: ironduke on 2006-02-15 16:24 ]

02-15-2006

he is right about the hard to start when its cold, i have the same set up, but half my problem is in the coils i think. i wouldn't trade my bonnie for anything even with the modifications that have been done to it. good luck with it and enjoy.

tmiller11147 · 02-15-2006

The neutral problem could just be a clutch issue. It might just need to have the pressure plate springs adjusted.

I would buy it, ride it, put the choke slides back in, and have fun.

Nice bike.

TRI-AL · 02-16-2006

Anything that's broke, can B fixt! If you get this thing, don't come home without ordering a parts catalogue, set of tools and a repair manual (Haynes/Clymer/ factory) and BE PREPARED TO WORK ON IT! The choke slides should not be an issue except 4 extreme cold days. The "ticklers" more than suffice to start the thing & it will just require a little more time to "warm-up". Moderate temps. shouldn't pose any problems. I don't have slides either and don't really miss 'em. No biggie. Neutral is ALWAYS tricky to find on those old ones, but it CAN B done! You'll B a "pro" B 4 U know it! Find yourself a parts supplier, NOW! Have fun :razz: