LOT 263

1961 Triumph 649cc Thunderbird Registration no. 779 HTA Frame no. D12768 Engine no. 6T D12768

Sold for £5,290 inc. premium

Lot 263

1961 Triumph 649cc Thunderbird

The Autumn Stafford Sale - The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|13 October 2024, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1961 Triumph 649cc Thunderbird
Registration no. 779 HTA
Frame no. D12768
Engine no. 6T D12768

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 Montlhery 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. 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 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.

Currently displaying 85,255 miles on speedometer, this delightful Thunderbird we're advised has had 5 owners from new (with the current vendor being the 5th owner). Purchased in 2022, it has been used sparingly on warm summer days and dry stored throughout the winter but will need a light recommissioning before returning to the road. Selling due to ill health, it is accompanied by a V5C, numerous invoices, a workshop manual and parts lists.
Offered with key

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.

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 13 October starting at 11am GMT.

Additional information

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