Highlights

Formerly a Police vehicle, now in civilian colours
We’re informed that it benefits from regular servicing and oil changes in recent years
Presented in very good overall condition - both mechanically and cosmetically

The Appeal

In a similar vein to Jaguar's MkII, the Triumph 6T Thunderbird was the two-wheeled steed of choice for those on both sides of the law. In the seminal 1953 American crime film Wild One, a 6T starred alongside Marlon Brando playing an unscrupulous gang member and fittingly, this late example began life as a British police bike in 1965.

Now in civilian trim and presented in very good overall condition, this Triumph now needs a new home as the vendor isn’t able to ride it as often as they’d like to. They demonstrate that it runs really well and rides as it should, making this a very usable example for those who want to make a classic British bike their regular transport. With smart paintwork, minimal wear and no notable damage that we could discern, be sure not to miss this very sound Thunderbird.

The History and Paperwork

We’re informed that it began life as a black Police motorcycle
Accompanied by the sales invoice from when the vendor acquired it in February 2021
We’re informed that it has been regularly serviced in recent years with frequent oil changes
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
A new Smiths speedometer / odometer was fitted in 2022 and the vendor is not aware of the correct mileage
Engine number: DU16328
Frame number: DU17803

The Condition

Originally black - as a Police bike, but now in civilian colours
Smart period paint scheme, with a really nice finish
Not too pristine to use and enjoy, but very presentable
The vendor informs us that there is no corrosion to the frame, tank or mudguards
All the badging and chromework presents really well, with minimal signs of use or deterioration
No notable damage or significant paintwork blemishes that we could see
The seat upholstery appears in really good order
The footpegs, grips, gear selector and kickstarter do not seem excessively worn
The front forks and handlebars appear in really nice condition
The Smiths speedometer / odometer was replaced in 2022
Complete with lights, mirrors and number plates for regular road use
The wheels present well and we understand the tyres to be in good order
A new black chain guard was apparently fitted in 2022

The Mechanics

650 cc parallel twin
Four-speed gearbox
The engine casings have been polished fairly recently and so present very well indeed
New brass fuel taps fitted in present ownership
The exhaust looks to be in fine condition
The vendor demonstrates that it starts readily, runs nicely and rides as it should
We understand that regular servicing and frequent oil changes have ensured it remains in fine fettle
We’re not informed of any current faults

Summary

The 6T Thunderbird is one of our favourite Triumphs. In fact, it’s one of our favourite motorcycles. With great styling, amongst the finest bike engines of all time and impressive on-road performance, they’re a really usable classic machine.

This example is particularly sound and we enjoy how it is ready to use. Too many motorcycles of this vintage languish dormant in collections, so we hope this triumph’s next owner continues to use it as originally intended.

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.

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.

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