14 August. Friday 2026
Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition - 1981 Specifications and Reviews
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.
1981
General information | |
| Category | Classic |
| Year | 1981 |
| Model | Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Wet multi-plate |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Lubrication system | Dry Sump |
| Starter | Electric |
| Ignition | Lucas Electronic |
| Fuel control | OHV |
| Valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel system | Carburettor. Twin Bing 32mm CV Type 94 |
| Bore x stroke | 76.0 x 82.0 mm (3.0 x 3.2 inches) |
| Compression | 7.9:1 |
| Max RPM | 7200 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | Twin |
| Capacity: | 750.00 ccm (45.77 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,422 mm (56.0 inches) |
| Overall width | 838 mm (33.0 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,223 mm (87.5 inches) |
| Seat height | 787 mm (31.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 199.6 kg (440.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 179.2 kg (395.0 pounds) |
| | |
Triumph T140 ES Bonneville Royal Limited Edition dimensions and frame | |
| Exhaust system | Twin downswept with balance pipe, Dual silencers. |
| Rear brakes diameter | 254 mm (10.0 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Dual piston caliper. Hard chromed cast iron disk |
| Front brakes diameter | 254 mm (10.0 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc. Dual piston caliper. Hard chromed cast iron disk |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 410H-18 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 4.10H-19 |
| Rear suspension travel | 89 mm (3.5 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Twin Mazzochi Air-Assisted Shocks |
| Front suspension travel | 170 mm (6.7 inches) |
| Front suspension | Telescopic slider type |
| Trail | 113 mm (4.4 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 27.0° |
| Frame type | Twin Downtube Cradle. Oil in frame. |
Speed and acceleration | |
| 1/4 mile (0.4 km) | 13.700 seconds |
| Top speed | 180.0 km/h (111.8 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| 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. |
| Color options | Chromed Fuel Tank with air-brushed metalic blue styling strips and Side Covers |
| Oil capacity | 2.20 litres (0.15 quarts) |
| Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles) | 5.22 litres (1.38 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 18.00 litres (4.76 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
6.5s
0-60 mph (est.)
111.8 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track20%
City45%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding40%
Touring40%
Passenger40%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to riders with some experience on classic, kick-feel British twins, since the narrow power band, drum-era brake feel (despite discs), and vintage handling reward a deliberate, mechanically sympathetic riding style. |
| Purpose | This is a classic collector's Bonneville built for weekend cruising, shows, and nostalgic riding rather than outright performance or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | A moderate seat height and manageable dry weight make it accessible to average-sized riders, though the lack of modern ergonomic refinement means longer rides will demand more physical tolerance for vibration and firmer suspension. |
| Character | 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. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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