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LOT 330

The Anthony R. East Classic Motorcycle Collection 1951 Triumph 499cc Speed Twin Registration no. MAN 1890 (Isle of Man) Frame no. 3070 NA Engine no. 5T 3070 NA

Sold for £7,820 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 330

The Anthony R. East Classic Motorcycle Collection, 1951 Triumph 499cc Speed Twin

The Anthony R. East Classic Motorcycle Collection
1951 Triumph 499cc Speed Twin
Registration no. MAN 1890 (Isle of Man)
Frame no. 3070 NA
Engine no. 5T 3070 NA

"When I took over Triumph in 1936 it was my intention to introduce a vertical 500 twin and in 1938 I offered one to the general public known as the 'Speed Twin' which was an entirely new mechanical layout. The general proportions of this engine were most eyeable (sic) and in performance it was even more remarkable inasmuch that the first prototype was producing nearly 30 horsepower." – Edward Turner.

The Speed Twin offered here dates from 1951, by which time the model 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.

Previously registered in Jersey as 'MUO 69' (in 1978), this Speed Twin was first registered in the Isle of Man in March 2000 and comes with its IoM registration document issued in 2009. Now fully restored throughout, the machine was last taxed until 31st May 2011 and had 321 miles showing on the odometer at time of cataloguing. Additional paperwork includes a quantity of invoices dating from 1998; a Sussex British Motor Cycle Owners Club dating certificate; a Triumph replacement parts catalogue; and Bryan Small's restoration invoice totalling £8,776.

Footnotes

If purchased by a UK resident, this machine will be subject to a NOVA Declaration, which Bonhams will undertake at no cost to the buyer. This declaration facilitates the registration process with the DVLA in the UK.

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.

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