The David Plant Collection, 1922 Triumph 3½hp Model R 'Ricardo'

Triumph's early output was confined to sidevalve machines, but in 1921 the appearance of the Coventry firm's first overhead-valve model caused a sensation. Based on the existing SD ('spring drive') model, whose frame and engine bottom end it inherited, the newcomer sported a four-valve cylinder head designed by automotive engineering consultant, Harry Ricardo. Although the 'Riccy' was unsuccessful at the Isle of Man TT races, a works bike ridden by Frank Halford broke the world flying mile record in 1921 with a speed of 83.91mph. The first production models arrived in 1922 equipped with a cast-iron rather than the racer's steel cylinder barrel, but otherwise were much the same, featuring paired parallel valves set at 90 degrees in a pent-roof combustion chamber, a bifurcated inlet port, and separate exhausts. Druid girder forks were fitted until Triumph's own design was ready. Economy rather than outright performance was the road-going Riccy's strongest suit, in excess of 100 miles per gallon being within reach at moderate cruising speeds. Although Rudge went on to make a success of their four-valve designs, Triumph's failed to last into the 1930s, being dropped at the end of 1927.

Acquired by our vendor in March 1987, this Triumph Ricardo is an older restoration that has mellowed since. The gearbox number is '5928' and the frame number is stamped in two places as per standard practice.

A note on file dated December 2007 records a general service, which included the wheels being removed; bearings re-greased and adjusted; a locking nut fitted to the rear nearside cone; a ball replaced in the rear hub; the handlebars changed to a touring type; new front brake and valve-lifter cables made up; and the fuel tank lined with Flowliner.

Also on file is a continuation logbook dating from 1954 when the machine was registered to Victor Hugh Doree of Beaulieu, Hampshire. The engine and frame numbers correspond with those recorded in the logbook, which lists the date of original registration as 23rd August 1922 and describes the machine as a Model R. The logbook also records the machine as taxed intermittently between 1956 and 1965. Further documentation includes MoT certificates dated December 1981 and April 1988. A letter dated July 1981 on Vintage Motor Cycle Club headed paper from Colin Missen to the DVLC relates to the Triumph's registration. It is noted that the last address for Mr Doree was West Hill Road, Leicester, while Missen's address at the time was Castleton Road, Wigston, Leicester. The file also contains copies of contemporary road test reports on the Ricardo. Offered with old/current V5/V5C documents, both of which incorrectly list the frame and engine numbers, having them transposed as Frame Number: 84467 and Engine Number: 323772. It should be noted that the kickstart does not engage with the gearbox and it is not known whether or not the engine turns over.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
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