1977 Triumph Silver Jubilee Bonneville
'One of a Thousand' they proudly put on the side-panels. A
thousand bikes wasn't enough, however, so another thousand were made:
the 'Limited Edition'. This is one of them.
I purchased this machine in November 2002 when my partner spotted it
advertised in the back of one of the Classic bike magazines. I
had long desired a Bonneville and this model has special significance
to us. After an initial inspection, Phil Pick of Triple Cycles (a
close family friend) visited us and took a look at the bike. Our
initial happiness with the machine was enhanced by Phil's assertion
that it was a "sound and honest bike". The negotiations took
place and off I rode on my 'new' Bonneville.
Over the Winter I did some cleaning (although not enough) and some
minor servicing (greasing and oil-changing) and enjoyed the occasional
run. The bike wasn't desperately reliable and its performance was
poorer than might be expected, but nothing that further investigation
and repair wouldn't cure.
Substantial electrical gremlins in Spring and early Summer of 2003 led
me to change the incorrect battery, aged loom and unreliable ignition
system. The Boyer ignition fitted by a previous owner was
replaced with a Lucas RITA system, an altogether more powerful and
rugged device. The proper Lucas 6v coils were fitted to
match. This, coupled with a replacement alternator rotor fitted
by Phil at his workshop in Ilford, has turned a frustratingly
unreliable bike into a first-kick starting gem with a delightful engine
that pulls strongly at any revolutions and will perform as briskly as
could be desired. This bike is enormous fun. Further,
riding this bike makes me feel proud.