Description
This is Lot 368 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 368
1973 Triumph 740cc X-75 Hurricane
Registration no. UOA 454L
Chassis no.
Ultra-rare and desirable 'factory custom'
Three owners from new
Highly original
Back in 1969, BSA-Triumph's US distributors asked motorcycle styling guru Craig Vetter to create a customised BSA Rocket 3 that would capture the free-wheeling, laid-back approach to biking best exemplified by the 'chopper' and popularised worldwide by the movie Easy Rider, released that same year. With its slightly raked frame, extended front fork, up-swept three-pipe exhaust system, and eyeball-popping bodywork, there had been nothing like the Vetter BSA before. By the time the concept reached production in '72, the BSA brand name was moribund and Vetter's creation had become a Triumph, though one that kept the Rocket 3's inclined cylinder block. One of the motorcycling icons of the 1970s, the limited-edition Hurricane was produced for little more than a single season and is highly sought after today.
This example has a 1982 New York State motorcycle license on the headstock. The Hurricane also spent time in Hong Kong (there is an HK 2003 license on file) before going to France, which is where the vendor purchased it, as evidenced by the AGF Certificat D'Assurance dated 01/ 12/ 05 to 30/ 11/ 06 June in the tax disc holder.
The previous British owner (who was based in both Hong Kong and France) owned the Hurricane for four years having purchased it from the first owner in New York State. He stated the mileage was original (current reading 8, 246 miles), that it was unrestored and that the engine had never been apart (the machine does appear to have original paint, chrome and seat upholstery). Other notable features include Borrani alloy wheel rims and a Boyer Micro Digital ignition.
Latterly kept in dry storage, the Hurricane has belonged to the current vendor since 2006 (purchase receipt on file). Recommissioning and safety checks will be required before it returns to the road (the engine turns over with compression). The machine is offered with an original owner's handbook; TR3OC 'Certificate of Authenticity'; sundry invoices for maintenance, servicing and repairs; some old MoTs; parts catalogue; and old/ current V5C Registration Certificates. A wonderful opportunity to acquire an original and unmolested Hurricane.
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.
