Back By Unpopular Request.

[Paul in NZ]

Here are the first pictures of the 1970 Triumph TR6C project. Back on the road again and ready for me to slowly blow it up for the 4th time ....

[Cajun]

awsome paul mate

[The_Dover]

That is a nice looking bike Paul.

Those pipes are pretty cool.

Now back to being a prick.

[Firefight]

awsome paul mate


sorry Paul I know it's :Offtopic: get back to work Neal:angry:


F/F


ps love the pics mate

[Sniper]

Damn that looks nice Paul

[Blackbird]

That is a magnificent rebuild Paul and a real credit to you. Are the pipes and mufflers the original US spec? They certainly look it. Hope you still haven't got the horrendous "instant leak" oil pressure indicator - job to see in the photo. My only form of transport throughout my varsity years was a US Spec 1955 pre unit Tiger 100. Thanks for awakening the thrill and memories!

Geoff

Addition: That steering damper knob brings back painful memories. Caught my balls on it when I went over the bars after hitting a car that did a u-turn right in front of me. Was walking like John Wayne for a week!

[Str8 Jacket]

Hey Paul, that looks awesome. You've done a really great job, you must be stoked! I bet Vicky's glad you've finished too...
Definately keen for the, ahem, "coming out" ride!

[merv]

Beautiful. So you finally overcame the painting problem.

[BeakerRAT]

Looks great, the pipes rock. Got any before pics, so we can do a comparison of before / after the rebuild?:rockon:

[Swoop]

WOW!!!:gob: Superb work. Looks magnificent and ready to win a competition by just sitting there!:yes:

[gijoe1313]

Heh - here I am in class and browsing the forums as my students try and string together a paragraph. A nice oasis in this parched land was a sight for sore eyes! Nice work on the bike, it looks mint - does it run as well as it looks? Keep it up and keep posting updates on your project! :yes: :rockon:

[Skunk]

Beautiful Paul.

[Motu]

I'll take 7 points off for the 2 bar toast rack,they never came out in those colours,that was a silly thing to do and will devalue the bike,and those aren't the original tyres....looks like the bike has never even been ridden! '' Why did I even waste my time looking at it,I hope to see an improvement on your next project.

Jealousy is a poor attempt at convieing my emotions....

[Paul in NZ]

Looks great, the pipes rock. Got any before pics, so we can do a comparison of before / after the rebuild?:rockon:

Looked pretty much the same except it was green and tatty as I rode it hard so many years.

Pipes are factory as this is the 'C' version (Competition) but by 1970 this was a bit of a joke and no one really used these off road anymore. There are a lot of competition based detail differences though in these 'Street Scramblers' and they are quite rare.

Mine has had the living shite ridden out of it even before i got it from the USA. It has an earlier engine (now upgraded in most places) and the forks had been damaged and there were signs of heavy use on the frame rails.

I've fitted a 67 TR6R tank for now (3.5 gal) but the original slimline (2.5 gal) is getting the treatment now. It will be closer to a factory colour (spring gold) but it was never my intention to restore this as a show bike, it's for riding. The chrome is as it has been for the last 10 years and the rims are factory chrome (36 years).

I have resisted the temptation to fire her up because there are a bunch of little 'fettling' jobs to be done and the key to a good job is patience. It's always been a great bike to ride and once it's all bedded in it will be again. I love this bike, I'll never sell it, even when I can't ride, I'll park it in the lounge and look at it, no idea why but who cares....

[Motig]

Looks bloody good! Definitely a labour of luv. I'm jealous. Had a Bonnie a wee while ago that I was going to do up but couldn't justify the expense to the accountant (plus the ride wasn't as good as I remember from years ago). Gone soft in my old age unfortunately.

[James Deuce]

Arrrrrrr. ArrrrrRRRRrrrr.

[Motu]

If you were going to own a Triumph,that's the best choice - the last of the good frame and brakes,real 9 stud motor,but not a Bonnie.The later models didn't have the light flickable handling,and the motors didn't feel as peppy - a Triumph is a hoon's bike,you don't want it to feel like it's doing something right.

[jazbug5]

Paul, I am speechless.

You've made rather a sad woman a happy one, for a wee while anyway.
God, you've done a great job!

Want to work on a shitey Bandit for a bit...?

[Paul in NZ]

Paul, I am speechless.

You've made rather a sad woman a happy one, for a wee while anyway.
God, you've done a great job!

Want to work on a shitey Bandit for a bit...?

Yeah - drop it over and I'll take a look.. ;-)

[HenryDorsetCase]

I really really like that. great effort.

I have set the left side view pic as my desktop wallpaper....

:drools:

[moko]

If you were going to own a Triumph,that's the best choice - the last of the good frame and brakes,real 9 stud motor,but not a Bonnie.The later models didn't have the light flickable handling,and the motors didn't feel as peppy -

When I started riding a lot of my mates were running old 500 Triumphs,bitzas mainly but they were fun,cheap to run, reliable and the guys were convinced that British was best,I was the only one who stuck to Jap bikes but enjoyed the rides I blagged on the native machinery.As time went on I worked my way up the capacity ladder to an XS650.The rest of the guys went for new 750 Bonnevilles.This was 1978 and no wonder Triumph went bust if my mate`s bikes were anything to go by.Badly put together,slow and totally un-reliable,and we`re talking about new bikes here.I saw guys in tears of frustration as their pride and joy let them down yet again or shook off footpegs and exhausts ,speedos routinely packed up and they found themselves left behind by my ratty old Yam.The letters pages of MCN and the bike mags were full of tales of crap build quality and shoddy workmanship.I got GS850,another mate got a GS750 on the same day and that was it,one by one the Triumph fans chopped in their machines,at a massive loss,Triumphs reputation was rock-bottom by then,for Kawasakis and Suzukis.So while you see the finger pointed at the Japs for killing off the Brit motorcycle industry the sad truth is that it committed suicide,Meriden finally went to the wall because it deserved to,a lot of people bought a lot of crap,often in a mis-guided attempt at patriotism,their thanks was often a kick in the teeth.There are some really nice Meriden Bonnies around but most have been rebuilt by enthusiasts and turned into what should have come out of the factory in the first place,general opinion seems to be that the 650`s are way better than the 750`s and the capacity hike was "for the sake of it" rather than for any apparent benefit.Just after Meriden went down you could hardly give one of their later bikes away let alone get a decent price for it.

[Paul in NZ]

There are some really nice Meriden Bonnies around but most have been rebuilt by enthusiasts and turned into what should have come out of the factory in the first place,general opinion seems to be that the 650`s are way better than the 750`s and the capacity hike was "for the sake of it" rather than for any apparent benefit.Just after Meriden went down you could hardly give one of their later bikes away let alone get a decent price for it.

I 100% understand what you are saying but....

There were a hell of a lot of people riding these bikes that never understood them and in all honesty should never have purchased them in the first place. Any meridan triumph that vibrates that badly has something significantly wrong with it and if attended to promptly, will give excellent service, within the parameters of the design. This is basically a 1950's bike and as such, the customer is expected to be a factory development rider as well.

The post 1973 T140's are in everyway a 'better' bike than the 650's except they are derivative and lost the purity of design / concept. They are more reliable and if left standard, a very nice old bike but they are not, nor will they ever be a GSXR beater and unfortunately, they lost their 'triumphness' along the way..

The older bikes have one significant advantage, they still 'zing' and if you have never ridden one, try and beg a ride because they are a thrilling machine to ride. They are exciting motorcycles and despite the numbers they feel fast and agile and are more FUN than a room full of randy rubber nuns on a wine trail. This bike has been flogged to the red line in everyone of it's 4 gears at every opportunity. I've raced it, been to rallys on it, toured on it and hammered it up and down the Summit Rd in ChCh every week, rain hail or shine and eventually I seized it going down the gorge into Wellington because I ignored the warning signs when I should have just bored it and whacked in some pistons and rings.

At some stage I wrecked the speedo and replaced it but going back through shed notes it did about 50,000km last rebuild without a serious (head off) spanner being laid on it. (bear in mind, routine mtce on these would scare your average modern biker witless). Properly serviced and sorted these are good bikes BUT they demand a sypathetic owner. They usually telegraph impending disaster well in advance but if don't listen - kablooie.......

The british industry lost it's way, books have been written about it for sure BUT. the 1968 to 1970 Triumphs were the dogs bollocks and if I had the money, THIS is the bike I wanted, without a doubt. You can keep your boring efficient 4's, this bike is viagra on wheels.

Paul N

God knows where you lived because a T140 has always been a desired thing. They held their value extremely well in all of NZ and infact there were always more buyers than decent bikes.

[Motu]

There were a hell of a lot of people riding these bikes that never understood them and in all honesty should never have purchased them in the first place.
.

Zigactly - I didn't have much to do with later later Triumphs - but often as a known Brit bike supporter I'd be cornered at a party by some ''bike expert'' who's mate had a '78 750 Daytona (in joke,kay?) and it was always breaking down and his K400 could clean it up.Those later bikes were pretty crap...they were smothered in Kalifornia regulations quick fixits that doubled their weight and halved the hp,they were being thrashed to an inch of their lives to keep up with the K400.As Paul says,volumes have been written about the British motor industry,it was a complex situation and you can't say just one factory did one thing wrong.

I found the '71's a taller wider bike and didn't feel as comfortable on them,although the handling was great - but I didn't ride Triumphs for their great handling,that's what I had my Norton for,Triumphs were dumb fun.

[andrea]

yeah man thats a real primo bike, hmm never no i might get one too instead of the 636

[kiwifruit]

thats a credit to you sir. Very nice.

[WickedOne]

Very, very nice. I am however scared as shit of those "scrotum removers" on the tank!!!!

[James Deuce]

After seeing those pictures I feel very privileged to have helped get that engine in the frame.

Very privileged to be considered a mate of Paul's in actual fact.

Bloody excellent stuf.

[Hitcher]

Stop! I can see where that extra bolt goes...

Very nice work.

[Motu]

Jim2 can't see where the extra f goes,I'm surprised Paul let him get near it in that case....

[MrMelon]

Very nice. That must've taken a while!

[Smokin]

Top marks for that mate, Looks awesome :yes:

[James Deuce]

Jim2 can't see where the extra f goes,I'm surprised Paul let him get near it in that case....
Aha!

There's an example of his influence. I normally have stuff left over.

[HenryDorsetCase]

Properly serviced and sorted these are good bikes BUT they demand a sypathetic owner. They usually telegraph impending disaster well in advance but if don't listen - kablooie.......


thats the thing, for me at least.

I really love the look of these bikes (late '60's Triumphs and Norton Commandos), but I ahve never owned one. Now I can afford it I am completely intimidated by the necessity to buy a bunch of new tools, and learn a whole lot of knowledge (and probably break a lot of bits and lose a lot of skin) if I ever decided to own one.

Having been brought up on japanese bikes (first proper road bike a GSX400 twin in 1981) I am used to only having to do the minimum:oil changes, spark plugs and points if they have them. Even the older stuff I have had has all been Japanese (Honda 4's) and stone-axe reliable.

Its for that reason that I seriously want a new Triumph Scrambler, just to bop about on: I would keep the Hornet, but the Hinkley Scrambler has the look of your bike, but hopefully not the maintenance intensity.

[MD]

I saw the thread title and was mislead. Now I've owned a 73 and a 74 Triumph TR6 and they don't look anything like what Paul has built. Just lucky he ended up with a beautiful looking Triumph Bonnie or similar.
Where's the retractable soft top? even doors for that matter?
This is a Triumph TR6. The only fuel injected Triumphs made in the 70s
Still, whatever you were trying to make Paul the end result is fantastic, well done.
Oh yeah and who can guess the scenery? The ... ... pub. And spot my front No. plate. I never got pulled on that one.
Triumph didn't just make cool bikes.

[James Deuce]

Lol MD. You Dick.

That's a Hairdresser's car.

[Motu]

It's not ''maintenance'' - it's being involved,becoming intimatly aware of your bikes mechanical heart,how it works,what it needs from you to survive.

Or you can just jump on your bike and turn the key....send it in for servicing and trade it in after a couple of years....

[MD]

Lol MD. You Dick.

That's a Hairdresser's car.



Blew mine away !

[Ixion]

It's not ''maintenance'' - it's being involved,becoming intimatly aware of your bikes mechanical heart,how it works,what it needs from you to survive.

Or you can just jump on your bike and turn the key....send it in for servicing and trade it in after a couple of years....
Haruumph. Real Triumphs don't have keys, just a magneto cutout button.

[Motu]

I was meaning his GZXR1 404 Avalanche has a key.The Triumoh had a piece of left over Mechano.

[et al]

Paul, you are a bloody legend! Great job, full respect to you for building that - something I could never do. Tank colour reminds me of my first Triumph (64 Triumph "Saint). Funny how in those days we tried to make them as "un-standard" as possible - when I bought this one it was all original, ex Police (as most of them were in those days) with the nacelle front end, etc. I butchered it with a "sports" front end, ape hangers, upswept exhausts, etc - what was I thinking!

[et al]

Goes without saying that I wish I had kept it - and the hair of course.

[Motu]

And a vege garden! Now that's something you don't see these days.

Nice bike - your mirrors needed to be higher.

[Biff]

Nowthatsabeauty.com

wavey dream sequence
"one day biff, one day"

[MD]

et al- man that pic takes me back to high school days. Friends had the 350cc (3TA?) and 500cc Daytonas. Added ape hangers of course. Couldn't stand the look or sound of those horrible megaphone pipes that were about in the 70s but Dunstall pipes- now they were good.

[Paul in NZ]

Lol MD. You Dick.

That's a Hairdresser's car.




Jim mate - a TR6 is about the least ghey car the brits ever made. The last of the really brutal sports cars and in the tradition of the Austin Healy's. The Spitfire was a bit ghey (but a lot easier to own) but the MX5 of the 50's / 60's was the Sunbeam Alpine - It had wind up windows and other 'girlie' features like a heater - wimps only apply...

My workmate just sold his ex racer TR6 as a easy restro project and trust me - that thing was a BEAST of a car and only suitable for manly men with a cleft chin, strong arms and a steely glint in the eyes (plus an enourmous wallet)

[Paul in NZ]

Paul, you are a bloody legend! Great job, full respect to you for building that - something I could never do. Tank colour reminds me of my first Triumph (64 Triumph "Saint). Funny how in those days we tried to make them as "un-standard" as possible - when I bought this one it was all original, ex Police (as most of them were in those days) with the nacelle front end, etc. I butchered it with a "sports" front end, ape hangers, upswept exhausts, etc - what was I thinking!

Oh lordy lordy that picture brought back a few memories....

Yeah! Un - standard was the go and yet - they all looked like that eh?? Standard unstandards?? Ape hangers gave way to pull backs etc. What an era!

[Jsn]

That bike is pimp fator 9! looks nigh identical to the new triumph bonneville.. minus the pipes ofc. :rockon:

[Motu]

- a TR6 is about the least ghey car the brits ever made.


One place I worked we used a TR6 as a shop hack,used to drive down to the shops to get the lunches.

I drove a MkII Sprite a couple of weeks ago - oh dear,the real thing is a rude awakening from rosey memories! No friggen door handles,and I'm a small guy,but it's made for someone 3 sizes smaller.I don't wear boots these days,I wear Cat sneakers - but my feet still got tangled in the pedals...I went through one intersection pressing both brake and throttle and couldn't find the clutch anyway! It shouldn't of got a WoF for a 100 reasons,but I'm a soft touch....

[Paul in NZ]

I drove a MkII Sprite a couple of weeks ago - oh dear,the real thing is a rude awakening from rosey memories! No friggen door handles,and I'm a small guy,but it's made for someone 3 sizes smaller.I don't wear boots these days,I wear Cat sneakers - but my feet still got tangled in the pedals...I went through one intersection pressing both brake and throttle and couldn't find the clutch anyway! It shouldn't of got a WoF for a 100 reasons,but I'm a soft touch....

Yes! We ended up with a Spitfire because Vicki was horrified when she sat in a Bug Eyed Sprite (that she fancied) to find that there were no door handles and not even a boot with a lid. Basic? Hell yes, the spitfire didn't have a heater but it had wind up windows and a 50/50 chance of keeping dry in the rain.

[Paul in NZ]

That bike is pimp fator 9! looks nigh identical to the new triumph bonneville.. minus the pipes ofc. :rockon:

Splutter froth gurgle gasp!! Lad! :gob:

This is the REAL thing - that 'replica' was made to look like this (if you squint and ingest a head full of P) but trust me - this bike was made by sweaty midlands artificers in the last years of the swinging 60's whacking lumps of metal with soft hammers and the most plasticy thing about it is the bakelite top of the light switch and the knob on the sidecover.

Pimps were gigalos and pipes were something your dad smoked after dinner...

:innocent:

[inlinefour]

Even if its not a jappa. Like everyone else I like the look of the scrambler pipes...

[Bonez]

Here are the first pictures of the 1970 Triumph TR6C project. Back on the road again and ready for me to slowly blow it up for the 4th time ....Looking good Paul.


Edit- I like your taste in tires btw.

[Indiana_Jones]

Triumphs are the coolest.


TRIUMPH. POSING SINCE 1886

:rockon:

-Indy

[Blackbird]

Paul

Here's my 1955 Tiger 100. I think the photo was taken in 1968 as I switched to lower "Ace" bars in 1969 to go to the Isle of Man TT. US-spec hi rise bars would have attracted more piss-taking than I was prepared to take:shutup: I sold it to a mate in 1971 and he still has it tucked up in his garage!

Aargh... just noticed that I'm wearing winkle picker shoes, blush.

[DMNTD]

Pure art with all the character that modern bikes of all "styles" lack today, IMHO...
You sir should be a proud man as you've kept alive something that'll always have a certain je n'......I do not know what...,that X factor. :yes:
Simply beautifull....congrad's and much appreciation for giving life to a "real" m'bike :yes:

[Indiana_Jones]

I like Triumph, their bikes have class - like their new sports bikes :D

Something the Japa's don't seem to have :)

-Indy

[Magua]

I like Triumph, their bikes have class - like their new sports bikes :D

Something the Japa's don't seem to have :)

-Indy

Bollocks. The new triumph sportsbikes don't have more or less class than a suzuki or kawasaki. They just rely on the name. TRIUMPH, ooohhhhh classy.

Edit. That's a nice looking bike, Paul.

[Edbear]

Awesome job, mate! Drool material for sure!:first:

[Indiana_Jones]

Bollocks. The new triumph sportsbikes don't have more or less class than a suzuki or kawasaki. They just rely on the name. TRIUMPH, ooohhhhh classy.

Edit. That's a nice looking bike, Paul.

The name is their biggest playing card.......


<IMG SRC="http://usera.imagecave.com/Zapruder/day955ice.jpg">

But still class mate.

-Indy

[Paul in NZ]

Paul

Here's my 1955 Tiger 100. I think the photo was taken in 1968 as I switched to lower "Ace" bars in 1969 to go to the Isle of Man TT. US-spec hi rise bars would have attracted more piss-taking than I was prepared to take:shutup: I sold it to a mate in 1971 and he still has it tucked up in his garage!

Aargh... just noticed that I'm wearing winkle picker shoes, blush.

Shit oh dear that is just so damn cool! I love the little extras and the mirrors! Oh the mirrors!!!!!! CLASSIC!!! The ace bars turned up for 'touring' oh deary me that is just so great!! The white seat cover... (couldn't afford a leopard skin one eh?) and the head lamp peak...

Lot's of little extras added to what is now (and has always been) a very nice bike, those alloy T100's were so nifty and it even has the big Tiger scooped front brake! 1955's version of the 636.

Oh man would I LOVE to have that bike now just as it is, what a bloody ripper..... ACE Cafe - here we come!!!!

[Bonez]

Bollocks. The new triumph sportsbikes don't have more or less class than a suzuki or kawasaki. They just rely on the name. TRIUMPH, ooohhhhh classy.

True. Their marketing timing for the new Trumpy twins seems almost spot on. But then again the Japs bet them to it by a few years :yawn:

[Bonez]

Triumphs are the coolest.


TRIUMPH. POSING SINCE 1886

:rockon:

-IndyMay I remind you the new Trumpy company is NOT the old outfit. But they have done a great job. First cloning the japs and building on it. Sound familliar? It should.

[Indiana_Jones]

May I remind you the new Trumpy company is NOT the old outfit. But they have done a great job. First cloning the japs and building on it. Sound familliar? It should.

Not really :D

Shhhhhh it's all about the name man :scooter:

-Indy

[Bonez]

Not really :D

Shhhhhh it's all about the name man :scooter:

-IndyKeep trolling. It's quite amusing. :yes:

[merv]

As for posing, here I am posing on my Bro's Triumph. Napierites will recognise the location that I rode to on it.

Looking at the second pic can the Triumph buffs out there tell us how original that bike is and what has been changed? My Bro bought it about 14 years ago and was told it was US spec bike.

[Blackbird]

Shit oh dear that is just so damn cool! I love the little extras and the mirrors! Oh the mirrors!!!!!! CLASSIC!!! The ace bars turned up for 'touring' oh deary me that is just so great!! The white seat cover... (couldn't afford a leopard skin one eh?) and the head lamp peak...

Lot's of little extras added to what is now (and has always been) a very nice bike, those alloy T100's were so nifty and it even has the big Tiger scooped front brake! 1955's version of the 636.

Oh man would I LOVE to have that bike now just as it is, what a bloody ripper..... ACE Cafe - here we come!!!!

Alright, alright:angry: Those bloody mirrors used to fold back over 80 mph and trap me! The bars were the genuine US hi rise. The previous owner used to work for the Reliant car company (I prefer to think Scimitar, not Robin:sick: ) and he had access to all the chroming baths so it had a lot of bling. The motor was a pearler though. E3134 cams and a few other goodies. BTW, I still have 2 pristine manuals for the 350 and 500 unit construction Triumphs up to 1963 and all Triumph twins from 1945 to 1963!

Geoff

[MD]

Yes! We ended up with a Spitfire because Vicki was horrified when she sat in a Bug Eyed Sprite (that she fancied) to find that there were no door handles and not even a boot with a lid. Basic? Hell yes, the spitfire didn't have a heater but it had wind up windows and a 50/50 chance of keeping dry in the rain.
Apologies for taking this a bit off your bike topic. I think the Triumph cars of the 70s were some of the best machines for their dollar in that era and the co. deserved to prosper but for reasons beyond me it folded. I always smile when I see a well preserved Stag on the road. Those MGs were for poseurs. Real men rode or drove a Triumph. The Spities were a good looker but had a very average 4 pot engine. I first had the GT6, a 2.0 L straight six. Great looker, good power (for it's day) and quite practical
The TR6 ran rings around MGBs with it's 2.5l six with overdrive. Mine had hard and soft tops as well. A lot of car for your $
I read a bit of history on Triumph once and if you go back far enough the car and bikes were all one and the same company to start with.
Bloody shame both disappeared.

[Blackbird]

Paul, as per your request, here is a photo taken at the '69 TT. Sorry about the people draped over it spoiling its lines:yes: . The other photo is a teaser for you. It's mine, but what motor is it?

Will have a look through my box of old photos tomorrow and see what else I can find.

Geoff

[Motu]

That 5TA Trophy is maybe 1969 Merv - got the 7in twin leader,but the black barrels and lack of feeler guage access caps in the rocker boxes make it pre 71 at least.

Here's a photo taken outside KB member OWLMorris's place as we set off for a ride.We were running in my wife's Tiger 100 on which she had just fitted a new top end (all work done by herself) Got rid of the crappy alloy top end and fitted a '58 5T big port head,new pistons and tappet blocks.That's the black Triumph in the foreground - take a guess if you like,I'll fill in the details if you like later.

The red Norton next to it is my '61 99 SS,note the Commando front brake and gold Renthall speedway bars.The light blue 1954 Tiger 100 is my best mates bike,exactly as it was when he rode it as Road Captain in the '60's,and as it was when we rode with him in the '70's....this photo is about 1980 I think.The last Norton is OWL's 650 Mercury,1971 I think.

It was a good ride that day....

[sels1]

Paul - well done Sir - I tip my hat in your general direction.

(And I would like to come round and see it in the flesh!)

[Ixion]

eventually I seized it going down the gorge into Wellington because I ignored the warning signs when I should have just bored it and whacked in some pistons and rings


Just as a matter of interest, how did you manage to seize a Triumph? Over the years, I holed pistons, burnt valves, snapped innumerable primary chains, blew countless headgaskets, ran the big ends, sheared a distributor drive pin, burnt out alternators, exploded a clutch, bent a pushrod, seized a valve rocker, and various minor misfortunes: but I never managed to seize a piston, even on a motor that had bores so worn that it smoked more than a two stroke of the day.

[Paul in NZ]

Paul, as per your request, here is a photo taken at the '69 TT. Sorry about the people draped over it spoiling its lines:yes: . The other photo is a teaser for you. It's mine, but what motor is it?

Will have a look through my box of old photos tomorrow and see what else I can find.

Geoff

Unit 350 or 500 with the head reversed and a supercharger mounted up front. Obviously a sprinter of some description judging by the frame?

[Paul in NZ]

That 5TA Trophy is maybe 1969 Merv - got the 7in twin leader,but the black barrels and lack of feeler guage access caps in the rocker boxes make it pre 71 at least.

Here's a photo taken outside KB member OWLMorris's place as we set off for a ride.We were running in my wife's Tiger 100 on which she had just fitted a new top end (all work done by herself) Got rid of the crappy alloy top end and fitted a '58 5T big port head,new pistons and tappet blocks.That's the black Triumph in the foreground - take a guess if you like,I'll fill in the details if you like later.

The red Norton next to it is my '61 99 SS,note the Commando front brake and gold Renthall speedway bars.The light blue 1954 Tiger 100 is my best mates bike,exactly as it was when he rode it as Road Captain in the '60's,and as it was when we rode with him in the '70's....this photo is about 1980 I think.The last Norton is OWL's 650 Mercury,1971 I think.

It was a good ride that day....

Um - not 100% sure the 500's ever got the funny little feeler guage hole??

However, the grab rail is 1970 onwards and the tail light is the horrid 'group' one fitted to the 71 on OIF 650's so I'd say it's one of the last lot of Daytonas made 71 through 73, the top of the forks look like the T140 ones so I'd say a 73. One of the very last Daytona models...

Motu - that piccie is gold mate - pure gold. Not sure the Mercury went as late as 71, I think 69 was the last orders. Loved my Atlas to bits and indeed every featherbed I ever rode had that air or superiority about em...

[The_Dover]

how old is blackbird???

triumphs are cool cos they are british. a bit like marshall amps. the orginal.

but some of you guys are far too old for riding bikes. and far too old to be up this late.

you must have been right little bastards when you were younger.

[Paul in NZ]

Just as a matter of interest, how did you manage to seize a Triumph? Over the years, I holed pistons, burnt valves, snapped innumerable primary chains, blew countless headgaskets, ran the big ends, sheared a distributor drive pin, burnt out alternators, exploded a clutch, bent a pushrod, seized a valve rocker, and various minor misfortunes: but I never managed to seize a piston, even on a motor that had bores so worn that it smoked more than a two stroke of the day.

Nipped up the drive side piston and welded the rings into the lands causing loss of compression on that side. I put it down to a worn oil pump and sloppy pistons (it was getting leaky in the top end so some blow by)

Rode it home on 1 and a half pots, sod it... It was due a freshen up anyway!!

[Paul in NZ]

how old is blackbird???

triumphs are cool cos they are british. a bit like marshall amps. the orginal.

but some of you guys are far too old for riding bikes. and far too old to be up this late.

you must have been right little bastards when you were younger.

Dad did tell me I was a great disappointment to him once when he saw me out with some gang type guys but I was only buying a bike that I made some $$ on so I turned out OK...

[merv]

That 5TA Trophy is maybe 1969 Merv - got the 7in twin leader,but the black barrels and lack of feeler guage access caps in the rocker boxes make it pre 71 at least.

....

He was told it was a 1970 Daytona but it has only a single carb engine and we'd thought the Daytona should have had the twin carbs. He bought it anyway because it was in good nick.

It is fun to ride but the slightly blurred vision it gives me from the parallel twin vibes shaking my eyeballs is something I've never experienced on any Jappa.

Great pic of your group too!!

[Blackbird]

Dover: I'm 59 in October and still irresponsible (ummm...according to Mrs B). May you live at least that long:innocent:

Paul... you're right on both counts. It's my drag bike engine which started out as a 350cc 3TA but kept losing its piston crowns due to the excessive piston speed on a long stroke motor. I put on a 500cc 5TA barrel and head and machined a short stroke crank in the varsity engineering labs to make a very oversquare 350. If you were super nerdy, you'd notice that there is one fin less than stock on the barrel because I had to machine about 10mm off to restore compression. You can see some decent pics here: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=25955

[Paul in NZ]

He was told it was a 1970 Daytona but it has only a single carb engine and we'd thought the Daytona should have had the twin carbs. He bought it anyway because it was in good nick.

It is fun to ride but the slightly blurred vision it gives me from the parallel twin vibes shaking my eyeballs is something I've never experienced on any Jappa.

Great pic of your group too!!

Easy to change that Merv

Bung up the engine / frame numbers are it's simple to tell what year it is.

[Motu]

Um - not 100% sure the 500's ever got the funny little feeler guage hole??


They definatly had the hole in the rocker covers,the '73 in my Rickman had them,and I had other rocker boxes with them too.There was no Daytona head,it was just a manifold change - so it's possible someone fitted a single carb to a Daytona for a sweeter running less fussy bike,you need to see the engine number,T100C was the Daytona I think..I used to switch from single carb to twin carb often - I couldn't run airfilters with twin carbs,and the Rickman had a superb airfilter for it's day,it was a shame not to use it.I used to run a 30mm Mikuni for a single carb.

My friend has had that photo enlarged and framed hanging in his dinning room for over 25 years Paul,it's a great photo of two Tiger 100s and two red featherbeds.It's possible his photo was taken by OWL who was a pretty good photographer back then,having done an album cover.Not sure how late the Mercury ran,but I know that was one of the very last.

My 99 was not really an SS,but had been made into one with a Commando cam,high comp pistons and a couple of 30mm carbs,the 600 was a happier motor than the long stroke 650,and not much slower at all.Mine actualy was the Norton bathtub version,but I didn't have the bathtubs.There was one on TradeMe a couple of weeks ago,restorded but in parts - I'm pretty sure she was the person I sold mine to,or at least the bike shop they owned at the time.I don't think it was mine,she was pretty attached to her own one.

[Blackbird]

[QUOTE=Motu;716008]They definatly had the hole in the rocker covers,the '73 in my Rickman had them,and I had other rocker boxes with them too.There was no Daytona head,it was just a manifold change [QUOTE]

Interestingly enough, there was also a T100C in pre-unit construction form which did have a twin carb splay head like a Bonneville. It was built for competition work and somewhere , I might have an ancient road test on it. There was another twin carb pre-unit 500 called the Grand Prix. This was parallel-ported and I believe the head originally came from a Triumph -powered generator unit from a Lancaster bomber. That's expended my knowledge of the more special versions!

[Motu]

Interestingly enough, there was also a T100C in pre-unit construction form which did have a twin carb splay head like a Bonneville.

Came across one of those,and didn't know what it was,we thought it was a Bonny head.The pre unit 500's had a spiggoted head and barrel joint,the 650's were flat.These 500cc splayed port heads were flat like a 650 - so my mate fitted it to his preunit 650.It already had some wild cams and 9:1 pistons,but it was puzzleing that it had an increase in bottom end power and didn't help the top end at all....then we noticed the small ports and valves.No one in those days had ever heard of such a thing...dunno what ever happened to it.

[eliot-ness]

[QUOTE=Motu;716008]They definatly had the hole in the rocker covers,the '73 in my Rickman had them,and I had other rocker boxes with them too.There was no Daytona head,it was just a manifold change [QUOTE]

Interestingly enough, there was also a T100C in pre-unit construction form which did have a twin carb splay head like a Bonneville. It was built for competition work and somewhere , I might have an ancient road test on it. There was another twin carb pre-unit 500 called the Grand Prix. This was parallel-ported and I believe the head originally came from a Triumph -powered generator unit from a Lancaster bomber. That's expended my knowledge of the more special versions!

That was the TR5 Trophy. Introduced 1945/6, As you say, an ex war department generator engine. All alloy, twin carbs and at 47bhp pretty powerful for its day.An unofficial factory version won the 1946 Manx Grand Prix ridden by Ernie Lyons. It was later used successfully in the ISDT. iIt was a good allrounder in it's day.

[Paul in NZ]

[QUOTE=Blackbird;716018][QUOTE=Motu;716008]They definatly had the hole in the rocker covers,the '73 in my Rickman had them,and I had other rocker boxes with them too.There was no Daytona head,it was just a manifold change

That was the TR5 Trophy. Introduced 1945/6, As you say, an ex war department generator engine. All alloy, twin carbs and at 47bhp pretty powerful for its day.An unofficial factory version won the 1946 Manx Grand Prix ridden by Ernie Lyons. It was later used successfully in the ISDT. iIt was a good allrounder in it's day.

2 different models.

The TR5 trophy is my bikes grand daddy and it had a shorter than usual frame and higher ground clearance (basically a TRW frame). They were a well regarded bike but never developed like the 'Compy' AJS singles and were a bit heavy for trials.

The GP was a rigid T100 with a 'race kit' factory fitted. Both used the generator allot barrel / head with coase fins and parallel ex ports but in very different tune. Edward Turner did not believe in factory sponsored racing mainly because he knew the T100 would get creamed by the Manx and it was a waste of share holders profits. The factory did sponsor a GP at the TT and it did OK but Turner threw a spazz when he found out and it was really a bit of a fluke. The GP was a good clubmans bike but not fast enough as a top flight racer.

Both bikes get faked all the time from old RAF generator sets. (they provided power for bombers on the ground) but the gen set barrels have a hole on the side where the heat sheild bolted on, factory GP / TR5 ones don't (where is me welder)

Both bikes are now worth mucho $$$

Both went to the close pitched alloy motors but the GP was dropped as a model and replaced with the 'C' kit (twin carbs) T100 which was availiable only one year and is very rare.

The head Motu described was theoretically availiable (if you were a big dealer in the USA supporting a semi factory off road team I'm guessing) and was known as the 'Delta' head, a name that flowed over to the T120 head but was different.

Think thats right??

[Blackbird]

Here's some more nostalgia - was just looking through some of my books. A TR6 variant with no luggage grid. No info available but this might be a US tank. Also has chunky tyres.

The exploded view drawing of the GP motor was the 1947 version. There's also a photo of a 1948 ISDT model in my book and as Paul correctly says, it has the lug for the heat shield. Only one carb too.

[Motu]

The last of the 5T's used 6T cases,using the bigger ball timing side case,with the inverted eyebrow under the timing cover.That meant they could take 650 barrels,but they were still spiggoted.I guess those mini splayed port heads used under bored 650 barrels to take that head.I have been seeing one for many years at the Puke Classic meeting,it looks like a Bonny,but races in the 500cc class.

[NC]

Beautifulness!:rockon:

[Paul in NZ]

Well - I just took her for the 'first' strop!

OH GOD! My babies back!! Damn, thats one sweet running bike and it was not just the cold night and the open face helmet that was causing my eyes to water. It was like meeting an old mate you had thought was dead in some bar and the years just melt away and it seems like you never parted...

Lots to do yet to make her safe and legal but - oh baby baby....... I'm in love!

Paul N

ps - Just a message to Vicki - Thanks for selflessly understanding my need to do this and squander money and time on a stupid old bike ... It's appreciated...

[Motu]

Good on ya,enjoy the buzz

[mangell6]

Well - I just took her for the 'first' strop!

My wife and I are honoured to be the first visited by said machine. Sounds so sweet, and ticks over like a new Triumph does, a few more MILES and it will be sounding proper.

It glistens, it does.

Thank you.

Mike

[Paul in NZ]

My wife and I are honoured to be the first visited by said machine. Sounds so sweet, and ticks over like a new Triumph does, a few more MILES and it will be sounding proper.

It glistens, it does.

Thank you.

Mike

No worries Mike - I figured I could 'just about' push here home from your place.... ;-) Thanks for being excited about it as well - made my weekend...

[riffer]

Hmmm. Very tasty Paul. Glad to see its finally rideable.

Will you be undergoing the same treatment for the Guzzi?

[Paul in NZ]

Hmmm. Very tasty Paul. Glad to see its finally rideable.

Will you be undergoing the same treatment for the Guzzi?

Lord no! However, the Mk2 is in for a bit of a gussy up here and there...

[Paul in NZ]

Here's some more nostalgia - was just looking through some of my books. A TR6 variant with no luggage grid. No info available but this might be a US tank. Also has chunky tyres.

The exploded view drawing of the GP motor was the 1947 version. There's also a photo of a 1948 ISDT model in my book and as Paul correctly says, it has the lug for the heat shield. Only one carb too.

Those pictures of the TR6 'varient' are interesting. They appear in at least one book I have and it is actually a picture of a prototype of my model (1970 TR6C). You can always pick a 1970 year 650 because it has the little triangular 3 bolt plate on the from motor mount, a good thing IMHO. The production colour was 'Spring Gold' which is actually a metallic green and more of an exciting army drap (ie not very exciting at all) but I've always thought the bike in that picture (more of a gold colour) was way nicer.

Also note the rear grab rail is different. I just prefer the style of the one I fitted to mine even though it does not work as well.

I'm restoring the original tank (US shape as per the picture) but it has a few issues retaining fluid at the moment so I'f fitted a tank off a 1967 bike and a luggage rack to boot, just because I think it looks snazzy... No other reason but I have bought a very cool little 'Triumph' tank bag that clips onto it and I reckon it's even cooler....

I'd forgotten about that picture - I was never sure if it was just a badly coloued one or a pre production 'colour sample' model. Either way, if you look closely, it's a brand new bike and never started and I think the gold suits it. Personally, I think it was a mock up to test the colour scheme, it has the UK market bars on it which was a no no for street scramblers.....

Paul N

[Blackbird]

Paul, you are coming dangerously close to tempting me to get a Triumph restoration project going on semi-retirement in 18 months:innocent: Don't think I could measure up to your magnificence though.

[Paul in NZ]

Paul, you are coming dangerously close to tempting me to get a Triumph restoration project going on semi-retirement in 18 months:innocent: Don't think I could measure up to your magnificence though.

Yes you could - erm - or at least what I mean is things always look great with a digital camera.

This is definately NOT a super restoration by the standards of such things. I know, I've seen a fair few. It's a nice old bike built to ride that looks nice because everything is fresh and clean. They get plenty dirty.

Restoration is a dangerous word. I know guys that can pick a genuine 'Triumph' bolt from an equivalent at 10 paces and distainfully discard the non factory equivalent. I'm not that fussy, I'm happy to modify, mix and match to get the result I'm after at the right price.

There are a lot of cheap 71 / 72 Triumph 650's around because they are pretty well unloved by everyone but they can be made into neat bikes if you are prepared to think outside the square. It's getting the catalogue quality 100pt restoration that costs the big $$. If you are prepared to do all the running around and be happy with a cheaper paint job you are not scared to use the bike and thats where the fun is....

There is an amazing 'Classic' scene out there and it's a lotta fun!

[Mooch]

:gob:

Shit Paul , you don't do things by half measures , Fantastic ground up rebuild many years in the making. Look forward in seeing it in the flesh.

I could certianly picture this sitting outside Ace Cafe London on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

Awesome job ! :first:

[Motu]

I've got enough bikes I could do a nice number on....but I really can't be bothered restoring a bike.I'd like to have a go at a D2,or a Ruston Bucyrus.But I'd need a warehouse and 5 acres to fit it.I've seen a few Onions abandoned on farms,they'd go well behind a D2.

[Brian d marge]

Why restore ?
Can understand Paul , as that girl will be his for life... Mine to

This is my ole girl , half way up fuji and somewhere near Nagano , bought new

Stephen

[limbimtimwim]

Oh yeah and who can guess the scenery? The ... ... pub. Don't know the name of the pub, but it is on the road to Akaroa. I have a similar photo (http://www.apathy.net.nz/si-2006/7.html) from this year.

Anyway, on topic.

Paul, that bike is awesome. See, this makes me want to hang on to my old bikes even more. I got a bit of a thrill starting my old friend only a month after it had run last, you must have just about cried in joy.

[et al]

Paul, that bike is awesome. See, this makes me want to hang on to my old bikes even more. I got a bit of a thrill starting my old friend only a month after it had run last, you must have just about cried in joy.

Paul's post about his restoration project has obviously stirred up a lot of old memories - great to see all those old photos and nice to know there are a lot of other good old buggers on this site who started out on the old Brit bikes. Also pleasing to see some of the younger ones are showing respect and can maybe translate the feeling we had for the old bikes into the modern context.

[Paul in NZ]

Paul's post about his restoration project has obviously stirred up a lot of old memories - great to see all those old photos and nice to know there are a lot of other good old buggers on this site who started out on the old Brit bikes. Also pleasing to see some of the younger ones are showing respect and can maybe translate the feeling we had for the old bikes into the modern context.

What is pleasing to me is that the old triumphs etc have lost the stigma they once had in the brit vs jap days. You rode one or the other and didn't question it. Now you can appreciate them a little more for what the really are. Far from perfect but a bloody good ride all the same.

Thanks for all the positive comments folks. Look for us on a road near you this summer....

[vifferman]

Very nice, Paul.
Good work mate! :niceone:

[eliot-ness]

Here's a pic of the 1946 Manx GP winning Triumph with the ex generator motor. Ernie Lyons was the rider. If you look closely you can see the break in the front dowtube between the forks

[Paul in NZ]

Here's a pic of the 1946 Manx GP winning Triumph with the ex generator motor. Ernie Lyons was the rider. If you look closely you can see the break in the front dowtube between the forks

That would have made for an even more exciting ride than usual... :shit:

Paul N

[Ixion]

Racing was a lot more meaningful back then. Notice the bike still has a pillion seat! And a front mudguard.And do I see the generator still fitted at the front of the engine, even?

TT speeds must have been, ah, interesting with that 7inch SLS front brake.

But back then it really did "improve the breed".

[Paul in NZ]

Racing was a lot more meaningful back then. Notice the bike still has a pillion seat! And a front mudguard.And do I see the generator still fitted at the front of the engine, even?

TT speeds must have been, ah, interesting with that 7inch SLS front brake.

But back then it really did "improve the breed".

I was watching some early 50's racing the other day and while the angle of lean is modest (more down to the surface than the riders) the balls required was similar to todays hero's.

The riding position was a little more 'upright' than the later crouch to cope (I guess) with what was essentially unpaved roads in places and I think the pillion pad was used to slide back onto during the long straights.

The mudguard looks like a lightweight alloy blade rather than the ribbed steel production number (makes sense) and those brakes .... Oh I remember those.. Could be OK on occasion but not for the feint of heart. Cast iron as well and heavy as death.

[eliot-ness]

What is pleasing to me is that the old triumphs etc have lost the stigma they once had in the brit vs jap days. You rode one or the other and didn't question it. Now you can appreciate them a little more for what the really are. Far from perfect but a bloody good ride all the same.

Thanks for all the positive comments folks. Look for us on a road near you this summer....

I rode Triumphs from 1955 through to 1972. Got the first Bonneville in 1959 and updated every two years up to 1969. Used the bikes for commuting, up to 120ks a day, touring and occasional production class racing. Only had one time when the bike didn't make it home, the fibre auto advance timing gear stripped on the 59 model. The only weak point I found was the drive side main bearing. I replaced them annually. Usually at around 35/40000 miles. The 59/61 models had the typical Triumph handling, a bit shaky on fast sweepers. In 63, the first of the unit motors, a frame change to single downtube improved the handling. The best model, to my mind, was the 1968/69. Claimed weight was down to 165kgs and the handling was on a par with anything on the road. I kept that one for four years. Never fancied the 750s. thought the small increase in power wasn't worth the reliability problems that came with it. Bought one of the new Bonnies a couple of years ago. Nice bikes, sound good, more power,handle ok but haven't got the feel of the old ones. Rose tinted glasses syndrome maybe. Wouldn't mind one of the old 650s now from that era. Hope to see you on the road someday

[Ixion]

Heretically I preferred the single carb Triumphs. I always felt that for everyday riding the extra power from the twin carb was only obtained so high in the rev band that it was seldom beneficial, and the single gave a bit more mid range IMHO.

The unit models were undoubtedly "better" bikes in every way, but for all that it is the preunit 650 that I think of as the defining Triumph, the 1960 or there abouts T110.

The best unit 650 was the first of the 8 inch 2LS models, prolly the 68 or 69 as you say.

One day, maybe. Trouble is that almost anything around now will have been so hacked about.

[eliot-ness]

Racing was a lot more meaningful back then. Notice the bike still has a pillion seat! And a front mudguard.And do I see the generator still fitted at the front of the engine, even?

TT speeds must have been, ah, interesting with that 7inch SLS front brake.

But back then it really did "improve the breed".

I think, (not 100% sure) the rules for the Manx GP required that the machine had to be in road going condiition but minus lights. The Gold Star BSAs factory entries in the 50s were rumoured to have wooden mock up generators to save weight. Fuel tanks also had to be of a certain capacity. One Triumph rider, on winning, was seen to thump his tank vigorously on crossing the line, putting a large dent in it. Other riders complained that he did it to disguise the fact that the tank was slightly oversize. Don't know if that's true but the occasional bending of the rules was part and parcel of racing in those days

[Paul in NZ]

The best unit 650 was the first of the 8 inch 2LS models, prolly the 68 or 69 as you say.

One day, maybe. Trouble is that almost anything around now will have been so hacked about.

You would be amazed what comes up.

I was at Bob nesbits a while back and he had a 1970 TR6R with 8,000miles from new on it. Even had the factory tyres. Tried to sell it locally but no bites 'cos it was a bit drab and not a bonnie so he purchased some NOS guards and a tank from british spares (made it look like a brand new 1970 Triumph) and sold it (off shore I seem to recollect - could be wrong).

That bike was amazing - every bolt - every washer, just as it left the factory.

They are out there.....

[eliot-ness]

Heretically I preferred the single carb Triumphs. I always felt that for everyday riding the extra power from the twin carb was only obtained so high in the rev band that it was seldom beneficial, and the single gave a bit more mid range IMHO.

The unit models were undoubtedly "better" bikes in every way, but for all that it is the preunit 650 that I think of as the defining Triumph, the 1960 or there abouts T110.

The best unit 650 was the first of the 8 inch 2LS models, prolly the 68 or 69 as you say.

One day, maybe. Trouble is that almost anything around now will have been so hacked about.


The wife had a 1961 pre unit T110 fitted with a full fairing and Fibregass panniers. A great touring bike, better than the Bonnie for that purpose, a bit slower on acceleration but not a lot of difference in top speed. I fitted a John Tickle twin leading shoe front brake to the 1965 Bonnie. That was the first bike that I had that I didn't have to rely on the back brake on. Tried a speed test against a 61 pre unit Bonnie on my 63 model There was no difference at all in acceleration or top speed, after a couple of miles on the motorway we were still side by side. . Mine had an indicated 115 on the clock, his 120. Probably true speed around 110mph

[Motu]

Those are usually American Imports,sitting in some shed in California and never used - I'd be tempted if the right bike turned up.

Cracked frames - my wife had a Harley Davidson 350 Sprint SX,the Aeramachi one,the SX was the trail bike.It was a disapointment to her,not the thumping single she hoped for...she was never comfortable with the handling,and the vibration made her hands go red.Didn't worry me,I thought it was damned good on gravel and even did a couple of races on it at Puke.Although it had front down tubes they were only put there on later bikes for customer piece of mind - having a motor hanging in mid air was not a good look apparently.The top motor mount was mid way along the twin top frame rails.It also had a sidestand with a spear point on it - the bloody thing would even go through ashphalt on a hot day and drop the bike on it's side....let alone grass.

The guy she sold it to came around with a story one day - the bike had fallen over one day (while he was sitting on it,bike on the stand) When he went to pick it up he saw the frame had a perfectly clean break in both frame rails just at the top mount - with the bike on it's wheels the crack was closed,on it's side with the weight off the crack was obvious.I'd hate to think we were riding around on a cracked frame - but there was no telltale rust around the crack,I reckon it must of happened after it was sold.

[Paul in NZ]

Still ironing out kinks but I believe its ready for a wof...

Charging charges - oiling oils and it's getting better every ride.

A few kinks to improve the feel of the front end are still required but we are getting there........................ Oh man - I loved riding it today... God - it vbrates a bit worse than I remember.

[gijoe1313]

:gob: Bloody amazing! This stuff is pure gold. You guys seem to come from another era where it was all hands on when it came to servicing your bikes. I've worked on cages no problem, and I'm looking forward to when I do work on my bike(s) - but you fellas seem to take it to a whole new level!

Old School. And thanks for sharing all the photos and memories! Real class and style - keep it coming and I'll keep on reading! :yes:

[Paul in NZ]

WOF is obtained - Registration granted... She's legal..

Just running in to go and a head torque and summer time fun.... Feckin awesome....

[Bonez]

God - it vbrates a bit worse than I remember.I beleive thats something some folk refer to as character ;)

[Paul in NZ]

I beleive thats something some folk refer to as character ;)

When I do it the kids call it old age....

[Bonez]

When I do it the kids call it old age....Lol. :rockon: :yes: :Punk: :clap: :ride:

[James Deuce]

Still ironing out kinks but I believe its ready for a wof...

Charging charges - oiling oils and it's getting better every ride.

A few kinks to improve the feel of the front end are still required but we are getting there........................ Oh man - I loved riding it today... God - it vbrates a bit worse than I remember.

I've never seen the back of a helmet grin so hard.

[merv]

WOF is obtained - Registration granted... She's legal..
..

I hope you put a bit more air in that back tyre as well.

Looking good though!

[Paul in NZ]

I hope you put a bit more air in that back tyre as well.

Looking good though!

Yes Merv.... A case of wild jubilation wiping out common sense. I was not happy with the way it was riding at all... The front end on the C bikes is very stiff due to 'sidecar' springs being fitted for heavy duty (off road) use and it gives them an odd 'bouncy' ride that I was seriously thinking of addressing via modern progressively wound springs. The front end got tapered roller steering head bearings, new tubes, bushes, seals and replaced the damping units so I fully expected everything to be a bit tight.

After going through 2 alignment sessions it seemed OK in the shed but dreadful on the road.

Then I saw that picture......

Ahh - well - yess - tubed tyre do loose a bit of air over 6 months or so eh?? Especially since I never ever checked em when the new rubber was put on...

Lets just say 10mins with a pump saved me a day in the shed and the ride is transformed. D'oh!!

Another lesson from the depths of the shed...

[Motu]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-68491016.htm

This seems to be our default classic Triumph thread....

I just put a WoF on this bike,no charge.It belonged to a cutomer who became a friend,we went on some poker runs.I saw him walking up the road a few weeks ago,I thought he looked pretty crook....and that may of been the day he died.I don't think he had much in life,and his friends are selling his bike to pay for the funeral,it's the only thing of value he owned.At least he spent his last years riding a nice bike.

I remember all the trouble he had rebuilding it,he almost gave up in despair.It's a very rare 750,and no other 750 parts fit it.Although it's a '73,I suspect it may be earlier.When the flattrack rules were changed to allow 750's everyone except Norton were caught on the hop,no OHV 750 motor.So Triumph did a quicky big bore 750 and sold a few for homogulation purposes.It was afterwards that they made the real 750 - so I think this is the homogulation model....and kinda rare.

[Paul in NZ]

Hi Motu

Sorry to hear about your friend - sounds a bad business.

To throw some light on it....

It's definately NOT the very rare T120RT 'Experimental' bikes built by triumph in the USA using specially made Routt 750cc kits. 204 of them were made (plus some spare barrels) and the bikes were made to take advantage of the revised AMA rules that allowed 750cc OHV engines in flat tracking and they were essentially pre OIF 1970 bikes uncrated in the US and kits added. These are quite valuable and easily faked (the barrels were marked differently to the std Routt kit but the 'T' was added in the USA when the conversion was done)

This is probably one of the very first T140's (around 1973) made. In these very early bikes a 75mm bore was used (724cc ) as opposed to the later 76mm bore that featured a thicker walled casting. They are quite rare as they were only made from sept to dec 1972. (the block part # changed later again that model year but not sure why)

Anyway - I think the 724cc models are engine numbers KH17124 through to CH29520...

So rare yes - but sadly not in a really valuable way unless a collector wants one to round out a collection of odd T140's...

Paul N

[limbimtimwim]

Oh, that's quite nice.

A slight pang of 'Maybe you should sell the GSXR for something like that' was overridden by 'You can cope with more debt!'. Which was then all shouted down by 'You are going to the MotoGP next month'.

[Motu]

Ah,thanks for that Paul - I knew about the 200 odd homogulation bikes,and there were some early 750's sold before they revised the engine,but no idea what was what when.It seemed every part he got for the bike was wrong,and it was a long time before he found someone who realised what he had.

Yamaha did the same thing,750 kits on 200 bikes or so.But they didn't sell,and they converted them back to stock....the 750 kits were available over the counter from Yamaha,US only of course.Later when the motor couldn't make anymore HP because of the head casting Kenny Roberts had them make a special cyl head.....and of course they had to make X amount of motors with the head.A marathon effort was put in to put the heads on,but only one was real and a runner - they made sure this was the one inspected and it was stamped ok.

[Paul in NZ]

Ah,thanks for that Paul - I knew about the 200 odd homogulation bikes,and there were some early 750's sold before they revised the engine,but no idea what was what when.It seemed every part he got for the bike was wrong,and it was a long time before he found someone who realised what he had.
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I was a bit surprised it was still running a 75mm bore... Most of them would have been converted to 76mm by now I would have thought.

It was a prick of a time for Triumph really. The early 5 speeds (T120V) was a good idea (fastest Triumph tested since the TT120T) but they blew it by making the gears too brittle and they had to come up with a kit to fix the problem, then gear up for the 750 that the factory really really didn't want to make, it was the US dealers that forced the issue... They missed the crucial 71 USA sales season due to BSA's P38 frame screw up etc etc... sigh...

I would not be amazed if there were a lot of other undoccumented differences as well. Couple that with sorting out 30 years of unofficial owners mods and.... (sigh)

As you have said before - they are quite nice bikes but it's important to know what you have because while most bits are interchangeable, not everything is and many things should not be used.

Hope they manage to sell it. It would be a great thing to properly restore and put away - much better collector potential than a normal T140 but frankly, it will be a few years before that happens. I mean there are so many oddballs TSX, TSS, Specials, Royal Wedding, Jubilee, Executive etc etc