1970 Triumph Tiger

TR6 PD33644

Clear

1970 Triumph 650cc TR6 Frame no. TR6 PD33644 Engine no. TR6 PD33644 International Six Days Trial successes in the late 1940s prompted Triumph to develop their range of the 500cc TR5 and then for the 650cc TR6, introduced for 1956. The larger capacity bikes retained their sporting character but became more of a roadster as time passed, ending up, in effect, as a single-carburetor T120 Bonneville, whose specification in all other respects it closely followed. More tractable than the Bonnie and more economical too, the TR6 gave little away in terms of outright performance, its standing quarter-mile time and top speed being within a whisker of its twin-carb sibling's. However, although the pair possessed an impeccable engine, Triumph's larger models were widely recognized as lacking in the handling department, especially when compared to rivals Norton. Following the wholesale changes of frame layout in the late pre-unit era, a single down-tube design was introduced on the 650cc 'unit' twins for 1963, although even this would undergo several detail alterations over the next eight years. By the decade's end the 650 Triumphs had arrived at what most enthusiasts agree is the models' ultimate incarnation, and today these late, pre-'oil-in-frame' 650s are becoming increasingly sought after by collectors on both sides of the Atlantic. This very nicely presented matching numbers example of the last and arguably the best year of pre-oil in frame bikes was built in November of 1969. It is offered in Orange with Silver blades and shows a little over 3700 miles on the odometer. Mechanic owned, the bike has been kept in truly excellent running order and runs wonderfully well. The engine starts easily and idles well. The gearbox shifts well through a fresh clutch. Brakes and suspension are both excellent with a fully operational electrical system. In fact, it brakes and handles like a modern bike! It was recently fitted with a new battery. Cosmetically, the bike is in very good to excellent condition. Paint and chrome are excellent with only some minor pitting in the handlebars to detract. Best described as very good rider cosmetic condition, the bike wants for nothing and I can’t begin to explain that this is one of the best riding Triumphs I have ever had the privelege of enjoying! I would ride it anywhere without question. And I don’t say that lightly.