The David Plant Collection, 1951 Triumph 499cc TR5 Trophy

From the time of its introduction in 1948 the Triumph Trophy established itself as a true all-rounder: a machine that could be ridden to work during the week and then, with extraneous components removed, competed on at weekends in its owner's chosen branch of motorcycle sport. Although catalogued primarily as a trials machine, its true forte was scrambles and the ISDT, events in which the power of the tunable Triumph twin worked to its advantage and its weight was less of a handicap. The arrival of a new swinging-arm frame for 1955 finally put paid to the Trophy's pretensions as a one-day trials mount, for although the rear suspension enhanced traction and improved the handling, the lengthened wheelbase and increased weight rendered it uncompetitive. Nevertheless, the TR5 remained an extremely competent and stylish roadster until the end of production in 1958.

Owned by the vendor since 1994 and last taxed for the road until July 2015, this matching-numbers Triumph Trophy is an older restoration that is showing signs of age and would benefit from detailed cleaning.

The history file contains an original buff logbook recording the date of first registration as 6th April 1951. The machine was supplied by B J Jenkins (Leeds) Ltd and first registered to a John Gascoigne of Leeds on 23rd April '51. The logbook records the machine as a motorcycle and sidecar combination until March 1955 and shows it taxed until 1959. Ownership changed on 26th April 1969 when the Trophy was purchased by Leslie Clarke of Leeds, later reverting to John Gascoigne, although the date of this transfer is not recorded. Also on file is a continuation logbook issued 7th April 1977, at which time the machine was still registered to John Gascoigne. Other documents include an MoT certificate dated April 1997, another dated March 2000, and a photocopy of a 1951 instruction manual. Offered with old/current V5/V5C documents.

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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