1957 Triumph Thunderbird

6T01558

Clear

1967 Triumph Bonneville Engine Number: 6T 01558 Frame Number: 6T 01558 Triumphs may have been built in England but the American market was a prime driving force in the brand's development, especially the bump in displacement to 650cc for the company's iconic parallel-twin, introduced in 1938 as a 500. The wide-open U.S. landscape, as well as American riders' penchant for desert racing and drag contests, demanded more power and more speed. Announced in September of 1949, the 650 Thunderbird was Triumph's response. A spectacular launch stunt saw three Thunderbirds lap the banked Montlhéry circuit in France at over 90 mph for 500 miles, after which they each achieved a flying lap of 100 mph-plus and were then ridden back to the Meriden factory in England, underscoring that fact that reliability had not suffered for speed. From then until the introduction of the 750 triple in 1969, the 650 twin would be the hot choice in Triumph's lineup. In modified form it brought glory to the company on dragstrips, dirt-tracks and the Bonneville Salt Flats. On offer here is a great riding example of the model from 1957, an export model for the U.S. market, featuring the higher compression pistons. Languishing in one collection after another for the last few years, it was recently re-commissioned with attention to all the usual places – engine, spark, carb, brakes, etc. – including a rebuild of the swing arm – no easy or cheap repair. The result is a pleasure to ride. It is easy to start, idles and runs well with good responsive power. Suspension is excellent with brand new Hagon shocks at the back; brakes are excellent, clutch is smooth and progressive and the bike shifts gears with the precision of a BMW! Cosmetically, the bike is fair. The frame is too good to need restoration, with nice patina. The tank and fenders were treated to a moderately priced paint job. It looks good from a few feet away. There’s a little chrome loss on the wheels, but not bad. The seat is new and the previous owner spent a lot of time getting it to sit lower than standard for a far better look. Tires are good, as are cables, etc. It leaks a little oil, but it is British. The bike is fresh from a tune-up from a local marque expert, and is ready to ride anywhere.