Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
1959 Triumph 6T Thunderbird
Estimate
£4, 500 - £5, 500
Registration No: 376 WMD
Frame No: 029268
MOT: Exempt
Only three owners since 2004 and under 11, 000 miles on the odometer
Sporting a well-preserved older restoration
Displayed in a private collection since 2017
By 1950, many motorcycle manufacturers had developed their own parallel twins to compete with Triumph’s, but the introduction of the 650cc Thunderbird once again put Triumph in the lead. While satisfying the demands of the American market, a 650cc twin was also expected to enjoy the domestic success of the 500cc Speed Twin and Tiger 100. It shared many components with the 500s, such as a rigid frame with a sprung-hub option, the headlamp nacelle and a tank-top luggage grid. The model frequently evolved, and 1954 saw the introduction of an alternator. For 1955, the pivoted-fork frame first seen on the Tigers of the previous season was introduced, resulting in one of Triumph’s most attractive machines
With three owners since 2004, this very attractive 1959 Thunderbird is offered for sale from a private collection, in 2017. We note the low mileage reading of 10, 711, which probably dates from the completion of an older restoration. Having been on static display for some time, some checks will be required for the Triumph can be used, but it was fired up in 2025. A well-presented Triumph Thunderbird that would be a delight for its new owner. Altogether a lovely example of one of the finest bikes of the ’50s, it is sold with the current V5C.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
