Triumph Motorcycles has launched a special edition of its iconic Bonneville T120, paying homage to the legendary Elvis Presley. Limited to just 925 units worldwide, the Triumph Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition is a stunning blend of vintage charm and modern performance, offering motorcycle enthusiasts and Elvis fans alike the opportunity to own a piece of history.
A Tribute to the King
The Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition draws inspiration from the rich legacy of Elvis Presley’s connection with Triumph motorcycles. The distinctive Carnival Red color scheme is inspired by the J Daar custom Bonneville, which was created in 2023 to raise funds for the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation. This edition retains the classic Bonneville DNA, with its timeless silhouette and sculpted tank that once captivated Elvis himself.
In a nod to the Bonneville T120 TT, featured in the 1968 comedy western “Stay Away, Joe,” and the Bonnevilles gifted to Elvis’s entourage, the Memphis Mafia, in 1965, this limited edition model embodies the spirit of the original while offering modern-day riders the latest in performance and technology.
Exquisite Design and Detailing
The Elvis Presley Limited Edition Bonneville T120 features a stunning combination of Carnival Red with Aluminum Silver tank stripes, accentuated by hand-painted gold line detailing. The striped mudguards complement the tank, while the chrome finish on selected parts, including the twin-skin exhaust with classic peashooter silencers, adds a touch of luxury to this iconic motorcycle.
A special numbered handlebar clamp with a laser-etched Elvis Presley signature marks each bike, making every unit a unique collector’s item. In addition, each bike comes with a Sony gold disc, presented in an exclusive Elvis Presley and Triumph Motorcycles record sleeve, along with a bespoke certificate of authenticity signed by Triumph CEO Nick Bloor and ABG’s Jamie Salter.
Memphis Mafia and the Triumph Legacy
Elvis Presley’s love affair with Triumph motorcycles began in 1965 when he took a break from filming and spent time with his close friends, known as the ‘Memphis Mafia.’ After trying out Jerry Schilling’s new Triumph T120 Bonneville, Elvis was so impressed that he immediately ordered Triumphs for all his friends. That night, nine Bonnevilles were delivered to Elvis’s Bel Air home, where he and his friends rode through the neighborhood until the police were called by concerned neighbors.
This story has inspired a one-of-a-kind Elvis Presley Triumph Bonneville, which, along with a matching Gibson Les Paul guitar, was sold at auction for $20,000. The proceeds went to the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation, which continues Elvis’s legacy of generosity by supporting various charitable causes.
Modern Performance with Classic Appeal
The Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition is powered by a 1200cc parallel twin engine that delivers a torque-rich performance, characteristic of Triumph’s modern classics. With a peak torque of 105 Nm at just 3,500 rpm and 80 PS of power at 6,550 rpm, this bike offers exhilarating performance with a distinct British twin sound. The engine also features a liquid cooling system, meeting EURO 5 requirements while maintaining excellent fuel economy.
Class-Leading Handling and Comfort
The T120 is renowned for its agile and confidence-inspiring feel on the road. Its dedicated chassis, relaxed riding position, and dual seat provide all-day comfort, with a low seat height of just 790mm. The bike is equipped with the latest generation ABS and switchable traction control, maximizing safety and control during rides.
Advanced Technology
Packed with high-specification technology, the Bonneville T120 features a ride-by-wire throttle, single-button cruise control, and selectable Rain and Road riding modes that tailor the bike’s behavior to various conditions. Modern touches like LED lighting, an under-seat USB charging socket, and an immobilizer ensure that the T120 is as user-friendly as it is beautiful.
Availability and Pricing
The Triumph Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition will be available from August 2024, with a starting price of £14,495 OTR. With only 925 units available globally, this limited edition model is expected to be in high demand among collectors and motorcycle enthusiasts.
Specifications at a Glance
Feature | Details |
Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 8-valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
Engine Capacity | 1200 cc |
Compression | 10.0:1 |
Max Power | 80 PS / 78.9 bhp (58.8 kW) @ 6,550 rpm |
Max Torque | 105 Nm @ 3,500 rpm |
Fuel System | Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection |
Exhaust | Chromed 2-into-2 exhaust system with twin chrome silencers |
Final Drive | Chain |
Clutch | Wet, multi-plate, torque assist clutch |
Gearbox | 6-speed |
Frame | Tubular steel twin cradle frame |
Swingarm | Twin-sided fabrication |
Front Wheel | Aluminium rimmed 32 spoke 18 x 2.75 inches |
Rear Wheel | Aluminium rimmed 32 spoke 17 x 4.25 inches |
Front Tyre | 100/90-18 |
Rear Tyre | 150/70 R17 |
Front Suspension | Ø41mm cartridge forks |
Rear Suspension | Twin RSUs, with preload adjustment |
Front Brakes | Twin 310mm discs, Brembo 2-piston floating caliper, ABS |
Rear Brakes | Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2-piston floating caliper, ABS |
Instruments | Twin dial analogue speedometer and tachometer with LCD multifunctional display |
Width (Handlebars) | 780 mm |
Height Without Mirrors | 1100 mm |
Seat Height | 790 mm |
Wheelbase | 1450 mm |
Rake | 25.5° |
Trail | 105.2 mm |
Wet Weight | 236 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.5 litres |
This limited edition Bonneville T120 not only celebrates the legacy of Elvis Presley but also showcases Triumph’s commitment to blending classic design with modern technology, making it a must-have for any motorcycle aficionado.