Triumph's 12th special series, with this 1200 Bonneville in honour of the 'King' Elvis Presley. The famous American singer was a Triumph fan, and his passion for Triumph began in a bizarre way: one of his friends, Jerry Schilling, had snapped up a Bonnie T120 and Elvis taxied him to go for a ride. Then, on a true star's whim, he asked that he and his mates be allowed to have the same car... that very evening.
The year was 1965. Elvis had already released fifteen albums and as many films. His success was colossal, and nothing was too much for this kind of character. Triumph was particularly fond of this kind of icon from the past, especially those associated with the brand in one way or another, so it was no surprise that it decided to create a limited series.
Especially since a Bonneville 'Elvis' had already made the news some time ago. A unique example was created for an auction in aid of the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation. Now, with this more manufactured edition, the Presley name is accessible to many more people. 925 examples will be offered to the public, with highly targeted refinements.
Already the decoration, with a beautiful bright red, gold and silver tank lines on the tank and front mudguard, the artist's signature in multiple places (tank, airbox side plates, handlebar clamp with laser engraving) and more advanced chroming of certain parts. A TCB symbol sits above the front wheel, carrying its message only to Elvis fans. But we're going to break it down a bit anyway. TCB stands for 'Taking Care of Business'. It was the artist's motto, and also the name of the group of musicians who accompanied him from 1969 until his death in 1977.
This Triumph doesn't just come with a pretty face. A pedigree has to be proven. The serial number of the 1200 Bonneville Elvis Presley Limited Edition will be inscribed on the handlebars. A certificate of authenticity will accompany the bike (signed by Triumph CEO Nick Bloor and Jamie Salter, Founder, Chairman and CEO of ABG, Elvis Presley Enterprises) as well as a Sony gold disc, all in a special Elvis Presley and Triumph Motorcycles pouch.
Elvis Presley made such an impact on his time that some Americans believe he is still alive. The Bonneville perpetuates his image with this motorbike reincarnation of the great '68 Commeback Special. This Modern Classics is the perfect muse for Rock'n'Roll, so these two stars found each other.
The star sold hundreds of millions of singles during his career; the Bonneville T120 of the time also lifted hearts, but in a dimension of performance and speed. Today, the feeling has changed, but it's still full of power, with its 10.7 mkg lifting the bike in a deep breath. The 80bhp may not be flattering for its displacement, but in use, this 1200 proudly defends its verve. The Bonneville is equipped with several riding modes, disconnectable traction control, cruise control and a USB port. All under the spotlight, or the other way round ;-).
M.B - Photos constructeur
2024
