Introduced in 1959, the Triumph Bonneville is a classic British motorcycle that quickly gained popularity for its style, performance, and reliability. The 1960 Bonneville, in particular, is a highly sought-after model among collectors and enthusiasts.
The 1960 Bonneville was powered by a 650cc parallel-twin engine that produced 46 horsepower. This gave the bike a top speed of over 100 mph, making it one of the fastest motorcycles of its time. The Bonneville also featured a four-speed gearbox, a telescopic front fork, and a swingarm rear suspension. These features gave the bike excellent handling and stability.
In addition to its performance, the 1960 Bonneville was also known for its stylish design. The bike featured a sleek, minimalist look with a black frame, chrome fenders, and a two-tone paint scheme. The Bonneville was also available in a variety of colors, including red, blue, and green. These features made the Bonneville a popular choice for riders who wanted a bike that was both stylish and fun to ride.
1960 Bonneville
The 1960 Bonneville is a classic British motorcycle that is highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts. It is known for its style, performance, and reliability. Here are 9 key aspects of the 1960 Bonneville:
- Engine: 650cc parallel-twin engine producing 46 horsepower
- Top speed: Over 100 mph
- Transmission: Four-speed gearbox
- Suspension: Telescopic front fork and swingarm rear suspension
- Brakes: Drum brakes front and rear
- Weight: 420 pounds
- Fuel capacity: 4.5 gallons
- Color options: Red, blue, green, and black
- Price: $1,250 (in 1960)
These key aspects make the 1960 Bonneville a desirable motorcycle for collectors and enthusiasts. It is a classic bike that is still fun to ride today.
Engine: 650cc parallel-twin engine producing 46 horsepower
The 1960 Bonneville was powered by a 650cc parallel-twin engine that produced 46 horsepower. This engine was a significant improvement over the previous generation of Bonneville engines, and it gave the bike a top speed of over 100 mph. The engine was also very reliable, and it was known for its smooth power delivery.
- Power and Performance: The 650cc parallel-twin engine gave the 1960 Bonneville excellent power and performance. The bike could accelerate quickly and reach high speeds. This made it a popular choice for riders who wanted a fast and powerful motorcycle.
- Reliability: The 650cc parallel-twin engine was also very reliable. It was known for its durability and longevity. This made the 1960 Bonneville a good choice for riders who wanted a motorcycle that they could depend on.
- Smooth Power Delivery: The 650cc parallel-twin engine had a very smooth power delivery. This made the bike easy to ride, even for inexperienced riders. The smooth power delivery also made the bike more comfortable to ride for long periods of time.
The 650cc parallel-twin engine was a major factor in the success of the 1960 Bonneville. It gave the bike excellent power, performance, reliability, and smooth power delivery. These qualities made the 1960 Bonneville a popular choice for riders who wanted a fast, reliable, and easy-to-ride motorcycle.
Top speed: Over 100 mph
The 1960 Bonneville was one of the fastest motorcycles of its time, with a top speed of over 100 mph. This was due in part to its powerful 650cc parallel-twin engine, which produced 46 horsepower. The Bonneville’s lightweight design also contributed to its impressive top speed.
The Bonneville’s top speed was important for several reasons. First, it gave the bike a significant advantage in races. Second, it made the Bonneville a popular choice for riders who wanted a fast and exciting motorcycle. Third, the Bonneville’s top speed helped to establish Triumph as a leading manufacturer of high-performance motorcycles.
Today, the 1960 Bonneville is still a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts. Its classic styling and impressive performance make it a desirable motorcycle for anyone who loves classic bikes.
Transmission: Four-speed gearbox
The 1960 Bonneville was equipped with a four-speed gearbox, which was a significant improvement over the three-speed gearbox used in previous models. The four-speed gearbox gave the rider more flexibility and control over the bike’s speed and performance.
The first gear was very low, which made it ideal for starting off from a standstill or for riding in slow-speed traffic. The second gear was slightly higher, and it was used for general riding around town. The third gear was even higher, and it was used for cruising at highway speeds. The fourth gear was the highest gear, and it was used for maximum speed and fuel economy.
The four-speed gearbox was a major factor in the success of the 1960 Bonneville. It gave the rider more flexibility and control over the bike’s speed and performance, which made it a more enjoyable and versatile motorcycle to ride.
Suspension: Telescopic front fork and swingarm rear suspension
The 1960 Bonneville was equipped with a telescopic front fork and swingarm rear suspension, which were significant improvements over the suspension systems used in previous models. These suspension systems gave the Bonneville better handling and stability, making it a more enjoyable and safer motorcycle to ride.
- Telescopic Front Fork: The telescopic front fork was a major improvement over the girder fork used in previous models. The telescopic fork provided better damping and control, which made the Bonneville more stable and easier to handle, especially on rough roads.
- Swingarm Rear Suspension: The swingarm rear suspension was another major improvement over the previous plunger suspension. The swingarm suspension provided better damping and control, which made the Bonneville more comfortable to ride and improved its handling, especially on bumpy roads.
- Improved Handling: The combination of the telescopic front fork and swingarm rear suspension gave the 1960 Bonneville excellent handling. The bike was more stable and easier to control, which made it more enjoyable to ride, especially on winding roads.
- Increased Safety: The improved handling of the 1960 Bonneville also made it a safer motorcycle to ride. The bike was less likely to skid or lose control, which made it less likely to be involved in an accident.
The telescopic front fork and swingarm rear suspension were major factors in the success of the 1960 Bonneville. These suspension systems gave the Bonneville better handling and stability, making it a more enjoyable and safer motorcycle to ride.
Brakes: Drum brakes front and rear
The 1960 Bonneville was equipped with drum brakes front and rear. Drum brakes were the most common type of brake used on motorcycles at the time, and they were generally effective at stopping the bike. However, they were not as powerful as disc brakes, which would become more common in later years.
The drum brakes on the 1960 Bonneville were adequate for most riding conditions. However, they could be overwhelmed in wet or muddy conditions, and they could fade after repeated hard use. This was a common problem with drum brakes, and it was one of the reasons why disc brakes eventually replaced them on most motorcycles.
Despite their limitations, the drum brakes on the 1960 Bonneville were still a significant improvement over the brakes used on previous models. The drum brakes provided more stopping power and better control, which made the Bonneville a safer motorcycle to ride.
Today, the drum brakes on the 1960 Bonneville are still adequate for most riding conditions. However, riders who plan to ride in wet or muddy conditions, or who plan to ride the bike hard, may want to consider upgrading to disc brakes.
Weight: 420 pounds
The 1960 Bonneville weighed 420 pounds, which was relatively light for a motorcycle of its size and power. This was due in part to the use of lightweight materials, such as aluminum alloy for the engine cases and frame. The lightweight design of the Bonneville gave it several advantages.
- Improved acceleration and top speed: The lighter weight of the Bonneville made it easier for the engine to accelerate the bike and reach its top speed.
- Improved handling: The lighter weight of the Bonneville made it easier to handle, especially in corners.
- Reduced fuel consumption: The lighter weight of the Bonneville meant that it required less fuel to move, which improved its fuel economy.
The lightweight design of the 1960 Bonneville was a major factor in its success. It gave the bike excellent acceleration, top speed, handling, and fuel economy. These qualities made the Bonneville a popular choice for riders who wanted a fast, fun, and economical motorcycle.
Today, the lightweight design of the 1960 Bonneville is still appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts. It is one of the reasons why the Bonneville is still a popular choice for classic motorcycle racing.
Fuel capacity: 4.5 gallons
The 1960 Bonneville had a fuel capacity of 4.5 gallons, which was relatively large for a motorcycle of its time. This gave the Bonneville a long range, which was important for riders who planned to travel long distances. The large fuel capacity also made the Bonneville a good choice for riders who wanted to avoid having to stop for gas frequently.
The large fuel capacity of the 1960 Bonneville was a major factor in its success. It gave the bike a long range and reduced the need for frequent fuel stops. These qualities made the Bonneville a popular choice for riders who wanted a motorcycle that was both fun to ride and practical for long-distance travel.
Today, the large fuel capacity of the 1960 Bonneville is still appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts. It is one of the reasons why the Bonneville is still a popular choice for classic motorcycle touring.
Color options: Red, blue, green, and black
The 1960 Bonneville was offered in a variety of color options, including red, blue, green, and black. These color options were important for several reasons.
First, the color options allowed riders to personalize their Bonnevilles. Riders could choose a color that matched their personality or style. This made the Bonneville a more appealing motorcycle to a wider range of riders.
Second, the color options helped to distinguish the Bonneville from other motorcycles on the road. The Bonneville’s unique color options made it more recognizable and memorable.
Third, the color options helped to increase the Bonneville’s resale value. Bonnevilles in popular colors, such as red and black, were more desirable to buyers and commanded a higher price.
The color options were an important part of the 1960 Bonneville’s success. They allowed riders to personalize their motorcycles, distinguish them from other motorcycles on the road, and increase their resale value.
Today, the color options of the 1960 Bonneville are still appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts. The original color options are still available on new Bonnevilles, and they continue to be popular with riders who want to own a piece of motorcycle history.
Price: $1,250 (in 1960)
The price of the 1960 Bonneville was a major factor in its success. At $1,250, the Bonneville was priced competitively with other motorcycles in its class. However, the Bonneville offered more features and better performance than its competitors, making it a good value for the money.
The Bonneville’s price also made it accessible to a wider range of riders. Many riders who could not afford a more expensive motorcycle could afford a Bonneville. This helped to increase the popularity of the Bonneville and make it one of the best-selling motorcycles of its time.
Today, the price of a 1960 Bonneville is still relatively affordable. Classic motorcycle collectors and enthusiasts can find a good condition Bonneville for around $10,000. This makes the Bonneville a good investment for those who are looking for a classic motorcycle that is both affordable and fun to ride.
FAQs about the 1960 Bonneville
The 1960 Bonneville is a classic British motorcycle that is highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the 1960 Bonneville:
Q1: What is the engine size of the 1960 Bonneville?
A1: The 1960 Bonneville has a 650cc parallel-twin engine.
Q2: What is the top speed of the 1960 Bonneville?
A2: The 1960 Bonneville has a top speed of over 100 mph.
Q3: What type of suspension does the 1960 Bonneville have?
A3: The 1960 Bonneville has a telescopic front fork and swingarm rear suspension.
Q4: What type of brakes does the 1960 Bonneville have?
A4: The 1960 Bonneville has drum brakes front and rear.
Q5: What is the weight of the 1960 Bonneville?
A5: The 1960 Bonneville weighs 420 pounds.
Q6: What is the fuel capacity of the 1960 Bonneville?
A6: The 1960 Bonneville has a fuel capacity of 4.5 gallons.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the 1960 Bonneville. For more information, please consult a reputable source or visit a classic motorcycle museum.
In summary, the 1960 Bonneville is a classic British motorcycle that is known for its style, performance, and reliability. It is a highly sought-after motorcycle by collectors and enthusiasts.
Transition to the next article section: The 1960 Bonneville is a significant motorcycle in the history of motorcycling. It is a beautiful and iconic motorcycle that is still popular today.
Tips for Maintaining a 1960 Bonneville
The 1960 Bonneville is a classic British motorcycle that is known for its style, performance, and reliability. However, like all classic motorcycles, the Bonneville requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. Here are a few tips for maintaining a 1960 Bonneville:
Tip 1: Change the oil and filter regularly.
The oil and filter should be changed every 3,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. This will help to keep the engine clean and running smoothly.
Tip 2: Check the tire pressure regularly.
The tire pressure should be checked every month or before every ride. The correct tire pressure can be found in the owner’s manual.
Tip 3: Clean the carburetor regularly.
The carburetor should be cleaned every 6,000 miles or every year, whichever comes first. This will help to keep the engine running smoothly.
Tip 4: Check the brakes regularly.
The brakes should be checked every 3,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. This will help to ensure that the brakes are working properly.
Tip 5: Lubricate the chain regularly.
The chain should be lubricated every 500 miles or every month, whichever comes first. This will help to keep the chain from rusting and wearing out prematurely.
These are just a few tips for maintaining a 1960 Bonneville. By following these tips, you can help to keep your Bonneville in good condition for many years to come.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your 1960 Bonneville in good condition for many years to come.
Conclusion
The 1960 Bonneville is a classic British motorcycle that is known for its style, performance, and reliability. It is a highly sought-after motorcycle by collectors and enthusiasts.
The Bonneville was introduced in 1959 and quickly gained popularity for its sleek design, powerful engine, and excellent handling. The 1960 Bonneville was a significant improvement over the previous model, with a more powerful engine, better suspension, and more comfortable seat. These improvements made the Bonneville one of the best motorcycles of its time.
Today, the 1960 Bonneville is still a popular choice for classic motorcycle collectors and enthusiasts. It is a beautiful and iconic motorcycle that is still fun to ride today. The Bonneville is a reminder of the golden age of motorcycling, and it continues to inspire riders around the world.