1966 Triumph 3TA Twenty One
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HIGHLIGHTS
- Genuine matching numbers 3TA
- Highly original late model
- A great rideable classic
- Low mileage
THE APPEAL
Introduced in 1957, it is said that the Twenty-One name celebrated the Triumph Engineering Company’s 21st birthday, or may of derived from the U.S. engine displacement rating of 21 cubic inches, equating to 350 cc.
Either way, the Twenty-One represented a new range of motorcycles from Triumph that would eventually include the 5TA, T100A and TR5T. Fitted with the ground-breaking and reliable 348 cc unit-construction design, the 3TA became popular as a touring and commuting bike.
Marginally sportier in looks, Triumph dispensed with the earlier enclosed panelling (or ‘bathtub’) by the time this 1966 3TA was built. Very presentable, this enduring Triumph is described by the vendor as a “really original, unmolested and rideable classic”.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- First registered on the 22nd August 1966
- V5 (in previous owner’s name)
- A ‘small service’ invoice from 2011
- A few parts invoices
- Several old tax discs
- Some previous MOT’s
- Last ‘Pass’ MOT in September 2014
- Online records show a good MOT ‘Pass’ rate
- No current MOT (exempt)
- Untaxed (exempt)
Although we don’t have a comprehensive back-history, looking at MOT records, we can see very low annual mileage since 2007, and indeed the last MOT in 2014 was carried out just 22 miles ago. So it appears that this bike was displayed or laid-up for the best part of eight years.
The previous owner and collector acquired it in August 2022, and although we don’t have evidence, other than the purchase of new spark plugs, a degree of recommissioning may have been carried out last year to get it ticking over nicely.
THE CONDITION
- Possibly restored some time ago (no details available)
- Sound looking single down-tube frame and paintwork
- Period correct blue/white paint with just the odd blemish
- Decent chrome work and alloy parts
- Nice Smiths speedometer and Lucas ammeter
- Electrics are said to operate correctly
- Original spec. fuel tank mounted parcel rack
- Good front and rear Lucas lighting
- The dual saddle has a couple of small tears
- Rubber components appear fine
- 18” wheels with some surface corrosion
- Older Dunlop tyres with cracking sidewalls
THE MECHANICS
- Clean and original looking
- Classic Edward Turner designed 348 cc OHV four-stroke, twin
- Factory power of around 18.5 bhp @ 6,500 rpm with a compression of 7.5:1
- New spark plugs in August 2022
- Single Amal Monobloc carburettor
- 4-speed foot-operated gearbox
- Telescopic forks with swing-arm rear suspension and twin shocks
- 7” single leading shoe front and rear brakes
- Easy to maintain mechanicals
- Room for cosmetic improvement
The vendor informs us that this highly original Triumph starts easily and rides well.
SUMMARY
One of Britain’s ‘go-to’ touring bikes, the practical, economical and yet peppy Triumph 3TA is still a great classic choice today.
With a modicum of room for improvement, and summer on the way, this wonderfully original British motorcycle should happily keep you entertained for many miles to come.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1966
- Make Triumph
- Model Twenty One
- Colour Multicolour
- Odometer 6,343 Miles
- Engine size 348
Auction Details
- Seller Type Trade
- Town Shalford
- Location Surrey
- Country United Kingdom
7
bids
from 6
bidders
- matthew•••• £3,200 25/09/23
- toby.ja•••• £3,000 25/09/23
- Russell•••• £2,200 25/09/23
- toby.ja•••• £2,000 25/09/23
- novomob•••• £1,500 24/09/23
- bistrol•••• £1,000 20/09/23
- wobblyc•••• £500 20/09/23
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