Naked Motorcycles

1981Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition

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The 1981 Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition is a classic British parallel-twin cruiser built for riders seeking authentic retro styling and traditional handling. Known for its iconic air-cooled 750cc engine and dependable Lucas electronic ignition, this limited edition model appeals to enthusiasts who value heritage and character over modern performance.

Capacity: 750.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 179.2 kg
Seat height: 787 mm
Power: 78.0 HP (57.4 kW)

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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail15%

Cornering55%

City riding45%

Daily riding40%

Touring40%

Two-up40%

Track20%

Best for: This is a classic collector's Bonneville built for weekend cruising, shows, and nostalgic riding rather than outright performance or long-distance touring.
Built for: A charismatic, air-cooled parallel-twin classic with airbrushed tank artwork and polished alloy detailing that rewards riders who value heritage, style, and mechanical character over outright speed.
Not ideal for: Not for riders seeking modern touring comfort, off-road capability, or high-speed sport performance.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 787mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1981 Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition, with a relaxed knee angle of around 120 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 750.0 ccm
Power: 78.0 HP (57.4 kW)
Engine type: Parallel Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.4353 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 76.0 x 82.0 mm
Compression: 7.9:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Lucas Electronic
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Dry Sump
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-plate

Performance

Top speed: 180.0 km/h (111.8 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1422 mm
Overall length: 2223 mm
Overall width: 838 mm
Seat height: 787 mm
Dry weight: 179.2 kg
Wet weight: 199.6 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.00 litres
Oil capacity: 2.20 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Twin Downtube Cradle. Oil in frame.
Front suspension: Telescopic slider type
Rear suspension: Twin Mazzochi Air-Assisted Shocks
Front wheel travel: 170 mm
Rear wheel travel: 89 mm
Rake (fork angle): 27.0°
Trail: 113 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Dual piston caliper. Hard chromed cast iron disk
Front brakes diameter: 254 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Dual piston caliper. Hard chromed cast iron disk
Rear brakes diameter: 254 mm
Front tyre: 4.10H-19
Rear tyre: 410H-18

Other

Color options: Chromed Fuel Tank with air-brushed metalic blue styling strips and Side Covers
Modifications compared to previous model: Differs from standard Bonneville in that the Fuel Tank is chromed and many extra alloy parts were polished. Custom paint airbrushed. The King/Queen seat set it apart from the standard Bonneville as well.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.