1953 Triumph Thunderbird

The Amelia Island Auction|3 March 2022, 10:00 EST|Fernandina Beach Golf Club

1953 Triumph Thunderbird
Frame no. 37956
Engine no. 6T 37956

Always a step ahead of their rivals, Triumph followed up the trend-setting Speed Twin 500 of pre-war days by being first in the field with a 650cc parallel twin. Announced in September 1949, the 650 Thunderbird was Triumph's response to demands for more power emanating from American racers and British sidecarists alike. A spectacular launch stunt saw three Thunderbirds lap the Montlhiery circuit at over 90mph for 500 miles, after which they each achieved a flying lap of 100mph-plus and were ridden back to the Meriden factory, a quite outstanding achievement. When displayed at the Earls Court Show in October, the new twin featured the headlamp nacelle and fuel tank with luggage grid first seen the previous year. An interesting change to the Thunderbird for 1952 was the adoption of an SU carburetor in place of the original Amal, a specially prepared machine managing a staggering 155mpg at a steady 30mph on a factory organized economy run. One of the most significant subsequent developments was the introduction of a swinging-arm frame for 1955 but prior to that time Triumph twins could be ordered with the optional 'sprung hub', which offered a limited amount of rear suspension movement.

Nicely presented, this Thunderbird was kept along the other pieces of the collection. As with the rest of the bikes, a mechanical overhaul will be required before heading back on the road safely.

Saleroom notices

Please note, the title will be in transit.

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