1972 Triumph Trident

T150VHG03360

1972 Triumph Trident T150V 5-speed in very original configuration. I purchased this Trident, along with another I recently sold, to use as a 'test mule' to develop a single carb manifold for Tridents. I needed an absolutely stock example for testing purposes, since the several other Tridents I own all have at least some level of modification. That project has been completed, and now I need to make room in my garage for other projects. This bike is a fine example of a good year of the Trident. It is in excellent cosmetic condition, and better than average mechanical condition. It is the rare 'short fender' version built only in '71-72, and it is a 5-speed gearbox. I get lots of admiring comments on it, particularily from the ladies..they seem to like the Regal Purple paint scheme. First, the flaws: The paint has some discoloration around the gas cap and slight lifting of the paint. The exhaust 'W' manifold has good chrome, but it is bubbling in places. I suspect it was re-chromed by a below average quality chrome shop. It's annoying, but not terrible. The left battery cover has some fiberglass breakout at the upper edge caused by a broken seat retaining cable (since repaired). The clutch slips under load, and is ready for replacement. I have a new clutch plate, but haven't gotten around to replacing it yet. The winner of the auction may dicker with me regarding a cost to include the new plate at auction end if they choose. I won't be able to install it, though, as I've way too may projects at this time. The tach is inop, although it is a good core for rebuilding, since it is the original Smiths instrument, not a re-pop. The oil pressure light flickers at low idle once the bike is up to full operating temperature, indicating the rod or main bearings are developing too much clearance. Now, the good points: The bike shows 5262 miles on the odometer, and although I can't verify that since I am not the original owner, the cosmetic condition of the bike is consistent with this mileage. Fasteners are almost all original, everything is tight, wiring is good (newer pattern harness), lights work, the chrome is in good shape, the original short fenders are uncut. The top end is fresh, with .020 over pistons, new guides, valves, and rings. The carbs have been sleeved by Lundt Engineering, and work well, with a solid stable idle. I substituted T160 needles and 105 needle jets when I did that, as Tridents are almost always too rich with the stock needles/needle jets on modern wimpy petrol. The front brake arms are the later, longer factory arms, not the aftermarket ones. This upgrade makes the conical hub front brake almost bearable. The Dunlop TT100 K81 tires are newer, and in very good shape, and correct for this year and model. The mufflers are proper for this year and in good shape. The dual horns are present and working. The sidestand tab is intact, as is the center stand. The 5-speed shifts smoothly. The frame appears to have been painted or powder-coated fairly recently, and a fairly decent job, too. There is a new chain, and a new battery. Cables are in decent shape and function smoothly. The lights work, the bike goes, shifts, and stops. Title is clear and in my name, with no 'issues'. The bike has been recently registered and insured in California, although it is on a valid California DMV 'NON-OP' at the moment. Please ask any questions before bidding, and I'l try to answer promptly. I've tried to list the important features and flaws, but I've almost certainly forgotten something. The bike is almost 40 years old, so it has no warranty, of course, but if you are looking at vintage bikes, you know that already. Payment for the sale will be via Paypal deposit, and direct funds transfer, or cash for the balance. The bike is available for pickup in Santa Cruz, and you will be responsible for all shipping. I do not have the ability to deliver or crate the bike, and it must be picked up at my location in Santa Cruz. This is an unrestored vintage bike that is 38 years old with known mechanical issues, so I'd also not recommend you ride it home, unless you are very adventurous and have someone following in a chase van.. If you wish to see the bike, it is available for viewing in Santa Cruz, which has lots of other diversions if you need an excuse. I live about a mile from the ocean and the Beach Boardwalk, and two miles in the opposite direction is the Mystery Spot. We have some of the best mountain roads in the country here in the Bay Area, and the scenery is not too shabby either...there are certainly worse places to travel to look at old Triumphs! My work is near my home and my schedule is flexible so I can easily arrange a convenient viewing time if you wish to come pet it. On Feb-10-11 at 20:41:59 PST, seller added the following information: This bike needs a new home and someone that will fiddle and fuss over it, and give it good use. To help this along, I've lowered both the RESERVE PRICE and the BUY IT NOW PRICE. You folks are awfully close already. Good luck!