It would be next year before they would designate these 5-speed bikes differently, with a “V” suffix (ie: T120V). Late in 1971, an optional 5-speed Quaife gearbox became available, originally an aftermarket item adopted by the factory race team. Changes were intentionally kept to a minimum because virtually every other part on the bike was new. Otherwise, there were minor changes to the pushrod tubes & their O-rings, a new crankshaft flywheel & bolts, and a new timing-side (right) main bearing. The headbolts were reworked so that they took the load off the already over-burdened rocker boxes & made the top end easier to torque down. Gone were the tiny screw-in valve inspection caps. Their approach was brilliant & also yielded some added benefits. These changes were engineered at the last minute by the Meriden factory when they found that the engine wouldn’t fit into the new oil-bearing frame. Most significant were the changes made to the cylinder head, head bolts & rocker boxes. While the new frame & running gear were getting all the attention, the engine received some updates also. 1971 model year started for the Triumph T120 Bonneville with Engine #NE01436. Not since the 650 twin went unit construction in 1963 had so extensive a redesign taken place. The 1971 Triumph Bonneville was a totally new bike. It won “Best of Show” Award at the Clubman’s All-British Weekend 2011 motorcycle show. ABOVE: This 1971 Triumph Bonneville was restored to ‘better-than-new’ condition.
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