LOT 267

Property of a deceased's estate 1954 Triumph 649cc Thunderbird Registration no. OLN 805 Frame no. 48992 (see text) Engine no. 6T 48992

Sold for £5,175 inc. premium

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Lot 267

Property of a deceased's estate, 1954 Triumph 649cc Thunderbird

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|14 October 2023, 10:30 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

Property of a deceased's estate
1954 Triumph 649cc Thunderbird
Registration no. OLN 805
Frame no. 48992 (see text)
Engine no. 6T 48992

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. When displayed at the Earls Court Show in October, the new 650cc twin featured the headlamp nacelle and fuel tank with luggage grid first seen on Triumphs the previous year. An interesting change to the Thunderbird for 1952 was the adoption of an SU carburettor in place of the original Amal, a specially prepared machine managing a staggering 155mpg at a steady 30mph on a factory organised economy run. The model remained in production in fundamentally its original form, though with progressively updated cycle parts, until the arrival of the unitary construction 650 range in 1962. One of the most significant developments along the way 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' - designed by the Speed Twin's creator Edward Turner - that offered a limited amount of rear suspension movement.
This Thunderbird was purchased by the late vendor in 2014 (purchase receipt on file) where it was used occasionally for summer runs and dry stored. It should be noted that the frame number has been restamped therefore prospective bidders must satisfy themselves to the originality of this machine. Accompanying paperwork consists of the aforementioned purchase receipt, current V5C and BMS maintenance and instruction manual.
Key not required

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Additional information

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