Highlights
- Period-correct custom ‘Bobber’ based upon a 1949 Triumph Thunderbird
- Equipped with a twin-carb 1957 650cc engine sporting numerous performance enhancements
- Finished to a very high standard both mechanically and cosmetically by the engineer who built it between 2012 and 2017
The Appeal
The ‘Bobber’, with its distinctive raked out, lowered stance and modified mudguards is one of the earliest and purest forms of motorcycle customisation. Originating in the United States after the Second World War as a means to make ordinary civilian and ex-military bikes faster, the Bobber movement is now experiencing a renaissance, with manufacturers like Triumph producing factory ‘Bobbed’ bikes.
Here we have a beautifully put together, period-correct Bobber build based upon a 1949 Triumph Thunderbird. Expertly home built by a marine engineer, this Bobber is reportedly as brilliant to ride as it is to look at, with a highly modified example of Triumph’s revered ‘50s 650cc parallel twins nestled in that customised frame.
If you’re looking for a custom bike that’s built for show and go, this is most certainly one to consider.
The History and Paperwork
- The original 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T was supplied to The United States of America new
- The previous owner, who finished this project, acquired the bike in 2012 as a rolling chassis with engine
- The V5C records that the bike was first registered in the UK in January 2006
- It was then shipped to Italy where the previous owner set about finishing the Bobber build
- The build was completed in 2017 and the previous owner carried out an extended ‘shakedown’ ride to Sardinia in 2017, where it apparently performed faultlessly
- It was then on display in the previous owner’s home before the vendor acquired the bike in 2022
- Numerous invoices for parts
- The V5C incorrectly calls this a Triumph Bonneville, which of course came out ten years later in 1959
The Condition
- Classic Bobber styling with a rakish stance, a shortened rear mudguard and altogether missing front mudguard
- Using premium and bespoke parts, this bike has been finished to very exacting standards by a marine engineer
- Distinctive paint scheme, bringing together the traditional black frame with the more contemporary green used to accent the custom tank and cut-down rear mudguard
- Small headlamp and discrete tail lamp so as not to interrupt the sleek lines
- We couldn’t see any obvious signs of damage
- Having been used quite sparingly ever since the build was completed, there’s little to report in the way of wear
- Frame number: TF32928
The Mechanics
- We’re informed that this bike utilises a 1957 Triumph 650cc parallel twin with twin carburettors
- Triumph T140 valve train
- Bunn breather system fitted to improve engine performance
- Premium K2 FC Lucas racing magneto
- Bob Newby racing belt-drive providing super lightweight clutch action
- Gear changes are via a ‘jockey shift’ mounted adjacent to the saddle, but we’re informed this can be converted back to a conventional foot-shift.
- The wheels have been fully rebuilt with stainless steel spokes
- Straight-through exhaust pipes with baffles, making this a loud, but not excessively noisy bike
- We’re informed that it’s very fast and rides well with no issues to report
- Engine number: 6T010359
Summary
If you enjoy a custom motorcycle, you’ll appreciate the hard work and skill that’s gone into this Triumph Bobber.
Ready to be used or for the next owner to put their mark on it, this Thunderbird is a fabulous machine and we’re sure it will take pride of place in the next owner’s collection.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
