HIGHLIGHTS
- Extremely rare motorcycle
- Spotless restored condition
- 498 cc vertical twin
- Matching frame and engine numbers
- Original registration number
THE APPEAL
Produced from 1949, the Trophy TR5 was probably one of the most handsome Triumph bikes ever made. Based on the Speed Twin, it was modified for off-road use but managed to retain good road manners too - capable of riding to work during the week and competing at the weekend.
The name Trophy came from the three ‘specials’ that Triumph built for the Italian International Six Day Trial in 1948, which went on to win three gold medals and the manufacturers team trophy.
A street-legal bike, this stunning trials machine is one of a reported 2,475 rigid framed bikes built, making it incredibly rare seventy-three years on. Restored some ten years ago, it is still in fantastic show condition and is said to start and run well.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- First registered on the 5th January 1950
- Original ‘buff’ Registration Book
- V5 (in previous owner’s name)
- Original registration number
- Tank refurbishment Invoice
- Reproduction of a Trophy Sales Brochure
- Some previous MOT’s
- Last (exempt) MOT was in July 2011
- Taxed until the 1st July 2023
Examining the original log book, we can see that this Triumph Initially resided in Bristol until 1960 after which it moved to the county of Cheshire, and then swiftly to Middlesex and onto Lancashire in 1961. It became part of a private collection from 1996 to 2008 and was eventually purchased by the previous registered keeper in 2016.
MOT records indicate a record mileage of just 1,391 miles in 1994 and 5,041 miles in 2010.
THE CONDITION
- Fantastic overall condition
- Excellent painted frame and ancillaries
- Refurbished sheen silver and chrome tank with luggage rack
- Smiths speedometer and Lucas Ammeter
- Nice chrome handlebars with one worn grip
- Good front and rear lighting
- Correct frame and engine stamps
- Clean and shiny alloy components
- Decent saddle and springs
- Repainted alloy mudguards in sheen silver with black stripes
- Presentable rims and undamaged spokes
- Tyre pump attached
THE MECHANICS
- 498 cc OHV vertical twin
- Standard compression 6.0:1
- Around 25 bhp @ 6,000 rpm
- Single Amal Monobloc carburettor
- 4-speed wide ratio gearbox (non-unit) with right-foot shift
- Multi-plate clutch
- Fairly new modern DVR2 voltage regulator
- Telescopic / rigid suspension
- Standard looking drum brakes
- Two-in-one high-level chrome exhaust system in great condition
- Vee Rubber 2.75 x 21” front tyre and 3.50 x 18” rear with loads of tread
Free-revving, the TR5 engine was the first to feature an alloy barrel and head and offers strong low-down torque, and despite it’s comparatively low centre of gravity, makes up for it with outstanding traction.
We do not have any engine build information to hand, but are assured by the vendor that this low mileage engine runs well.
We do not have any engine build information to hand, but are assured by the vendor that this low mileage engine runs well.
SUMMARY
To quote Triumph’s marketing, the Trophy is “…a light, tough model for off-road riders and incorporates every refinement dictated by experience in all the major competitions” - great stuff!
Possibly one for the collector and Sunday bike show runs rather than off-road trials, this rare showroom restored icon should be a great investment and enjoyable to own.
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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