Descrição
This is Lot 397 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale on the 26 & 27 April, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Public Viewing:
Available 26 April from 09:00 until 17:00 and 27 April from 09:00 until 17:00, at The International Classic Motorcycle Show, Stafford.
Lot 397
1959 Triumph 649cc Thunderbird 6T
Registration no. XLT 456
Chassis no.
Triumph production was curtailed by the intervention of World War II and the need to throw all their resources into the war effort. When manufacturing was resumed in 1946 after the conflict, the model range was, in common with other makers, necessarily limited, and there were still only two 500cc twins in the range. With the drive for exports in full flow during the 1940s Triumph felt the pressure from their distributors in USA for larger capacity machines. The result of this was the introduction of the 650ccThunderbird in 1949. Initially with sprung hub rear suspension, it was updated to swinging arm in 1954.
This 1959 Thunderbird was acquired by the present owner in 1980, in need of restoration. The private vendor advises us that he carried out a full mechanical and cosmetic restoration of the bike. The crankshaft was reground, and new shells fitted, new main bearings, new pistons and rebore, new valves and guides, wheels rebuilt with stainless steel spokes and new original Triumph rims, and all the paintwork was refurbished. Since completion in 1980, the Thunderbird has been used only occasionally on fine days, and for short distances. It has not been used for the past year, so light re-commissioning, fresh fuel, and safety checks are recommended, hence sold strictly as seen. It should be noted that the engine number is not a factory stamping. Documentation consists of a current V5C and a quantity of expired MoT certificates. Key present.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams website for all pertinent auction information.
