Highlights
- From the Bond Collection of Historic Motorcycles
- One of just five original Trials Competition Trophy 250s built by Comerfords in 1969-70
- Fully restored in 2010
- Trials Championship winner in 1996 and 1998
- Awarded Best Trials Machine at Classic Motorcycle show 2016 and 2017
The Appeal
In the world of historic trials machinery there can be few motorcycles as rare and historically important as this immaculate Triumph 250. Built by Reg May in the Comerfords Competition workshop from Triumph TR25W Trailblazer, it is one of just five built. Comerfords, based in Thames Ditton, were well known for their involvement and success with off-road competition bikes. The Triumph was heavily modified by for competition with changes to the frame, front fork angles, foot rests and ride height. All the modifications are listed in the comprehensive history folder with handwritten notes from the second owner who competed with the Triumph over several years winning the Sammy Miller Trials Championship in 1996 and 1998. He subsequently restored the machine to its original condition in 2010.
Sold in 2012 it became part of a collection of significant motorcycles and was displayed at various Classic Motorcycle shows, winning Best Trials motorcycle on several occasions. The Seller purchased the entire collection in 2020, and he has now decided to offer the collection of motorcycles for sale individually as he hopes they will be purchased by enthusiasts who will appreciate their historic importance.
History and Paperwork
- Built by Reg May of Competitions Dept, Comerfords of Thames Ditton in 1969-70
- Based on Triumph TR25W Trailblazer
- One of 5 built for competition in Comerfords Competition workshop
- Original Buff logbook from 1970 with Comerfords as first owner
- First private owner Roger Kearsey (BSA, Aerial & Royal Enfield “works” rider)
- Sold in 1984 to Roger Davy (receipt on file)
- Returned to Reg May for updating in 1988
- Competed in Sammy Miller Series and Open Trials
- Won the Sammy Miller Trials Championship in 1996 & 1998
- Retired from competition in 2001 and stored for several years
- Restored to original condition in 2010
- Purchased by Jim Rose in December 2012 to be part of his collection
- Entire collection purchased by the Seller in 2020
- Mechanically re-commissioned by Rockerbox of Farnham in 2012 with invoice on file
- Four page article in Classic Motorcycle in November 2016 (copy included)
- Comprehensive handwritten history of the bike written by Roger Davy
- Won Best Trials bike at the Classic Motorcycle Show 2016 & 2017(rosettes included)
- V5c in name of previous private owner
The Condition
- Restored to original condition in 2010
- Remains in unused and fresh state
- Original hand painted “Lyta” alloy fuel tank
- Unused knobbly Trials Benissimo tyres
- All brightwork and trim in superb condition
Following the Triumph’s restoration in 2010 it was sold and became part of a collection of rare and interesting motorbikes that were displayed at various events. The owner did not ride himself, but the Triumph was mechanically re-commissioned in 2012, prior to being featured in The Classic Motorcycle magazine in 2016. There is a copy of the magazine included, and the detailed article makes interesting reading, and shows the author riding the Triumph off road.
Overall the Triumph is in excellent condition as can be seen in the photographs. There is no damage; the painted areas have a good shine, as do all the alloy and steel parts. The wheels (21inch at front, 19 inch rear) have a good shine with no corrosion or pitting, and are fitted with unused Trials tyres.
Recently it has spent some time in heated storage and has not been started for some time so it is likely to require gentle attention before it can be ridden.
The Mechanics
- 248cc Triumph OHV single cylinder
- Amal Concentric carburettor
- Boyer Electronic Ignition
- Four speed Triumph/BSA gearbox
- Lengthened front forks, swinging arm rear with lengthened double-rate suspension
On the day we visited we did not attempt to start the Triumph, although the Seller assures us that with a little tinkering it would run well. We are not sure when it last ran as for the past 3 years it has been either carefully stored, or exhibited, but he assures us that mechanically it is in great shape.
Summary
Even for those with an in depth knowledge of British trials bikes of the era could be forgiven for being unaware of its existence. With only 5 examples built in period how many originals with this providence can there be left? There have been a few replicas built and offered for sale over the years, but despite searching we couldn’t find another genuine Reg May built example..
It’s not often that a motorcycle as rare and important as this is offered for sale, and we are sure it will prove to be a wise investment.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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