The David Plant Collection, c.1952 Triumph 650cc Thunderbird

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. 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. Many Thunderbirds were supplied with optional Edward Turner-designed 'Sprung Hub', which conferred a degree of rear suspension, albeit with relatively limited movement. It had the advantage of being easily accommodated in the rigid frame and would remain the only form of rear suspension offered by Triumph until the arrival of the swinging-arm frame in 1954.

This Sprung Hub-equipped Thunderbird currently displays a total of 33,666 on the odometer. The machine appears to be in original condition, boasting its original paint to the frame, mudguards, nacelle, tinware and fuel tank, the latter retaining remnants of original lining. The silencers are possibly later replacements. The engine turns over.

Our vendor describes the Thunderbird as a 'brilliant machine' and one of his favourites: a veritable 'Trusty Triumph' from the 1950s. The vendor and his wife have travelled many miles two-up and report that the Triumph goes very well, allegedly because no one has ever tinkered with it!

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.
Offered with key