LOT 784

1954 Triumph 498cc Speed Twin Registration no. RYC 63 Frame no. 48852 Engine no. 5T 48852

Sold for £8,855 inc. premium

Lot 784

1954 Triumph 498cc Speed Twin
Registration no. RYC 63 Frame no. 48852 Engine no. 5T 48852

The Summer Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show (Three-Day Auction)|4 July 2021, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1954 Triumph 498cc Speed Twin
Registration no. RYC 63
Frame no. 48852
Engine no. 5T 48852

Although Edward Turner's Speed Twin caused a sensation when it appeared at the 1937 Motorcycle Show, few of its admirers can have guessed how influential the design would prove to be; indeed, Triumph's newcomer established a formula that would be adopted by all of Britain's major motorcycle manufacturers in the succeeding decade. And whereas previous vertical twins had suffered from excess bulk, Turner's was lighter and narrower across the crankcase than the contemporary single-cylinder Tiger 90, and from certain angles looked just like a twin-port single. Performance proved exemplary for a road-going 500, better than 100mph being attainable under favourable conditions. The example offered here dates from 1953, by which time the Speed Twin had been upgraded with a stronger 8-stud cylinder barrel (replacing the original 6-stud) and Triumph's own telescopic front fork. This particular machine also has the Edward Turner-designed optional 'Sprung Hub', which endowed the rigid frame with a measure of rear suspension movement. 'RYC 63' was purchased by the vendor's late brother in 2006 and restored by Sammy Miller between 2009 and 2013. Kept in a dry heated garage, the Triumph was last used in 2014 and is presented in very good condition throughout. Re-commissioning and the customary safety checks will be required before returning it to the road. The machine is offered with the 2006 purchase receipt; sundry bills; and a current V5C document.

Saleroom notices

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