1973 Triumph 740cc T150 Trident

Launched in the UK in 1969, the BSA-Triumph 750cc triples were based on the existing Triumph 500cc twin-cylinder engine, being in essence a 'Tiger-and-a-half'. Differences between the Triumph Trident and BSA Rocket 3 were more than just cosmetic: the two models used different frames and in BSA guise the motor featured an inclined cylinder block. Only the Trident survived the group's collapse in 1972, continuing as the five-speed T150V and later the T160 (using the inclined engine).
Although ultimately upstaged in the showroom by Japanese rivals, the Triumph and BSA 750 triples did more than enough on the racetrack to ensure their place in motorcycling history. The works triples won at Daytona, the Bol d'Or, and Ontario in 1971, while as a production racer they were equally dominant as the number of important race victories achieved (most notably by the works Triumph 'Slippery Sam') is eloquent testimony. Today the BSA-Triumph triples enjoy an enthusiastic following worldwide and are supported by a first rate owners' club - the T&R3OC - and numerous recognised specialists.
According to the accompanying HPI report, this UK-supplied Triumph T150 Trident was first registered on 4th April 1973. The previous owner/2024 auction listing stated that the motorcycle had been purchased from the family of a deceased owner who, reportedly, had displayed it in his living room for more than 25 years. Its owner from 1983, this individual is listed as 'Keeper 4' on the HPI report. 'Keeper 5' owned the Triumph from 2010 to 2013 and 'Keeper 6' from 2013 to June 2024 when it was acquired at auction by the late owner, since when it has remained unused.

Acquired by 'Keeper 6' in 2013, it is purported the Triumph remained in storage and unused until 2019 when the engine was removed and rebuilt. At that time, a new clutch and rear drive chain were fitted, together with a replacement wiring loom and battery. The Boyer electronic ignition unit was returned to the manufacturer for testing, and a number of cosmetic improvements were undertaken also.

When purchased by the late owner, the motorcycle was described as a matching-numbers example. While the recorded mileage of 6,907 cannot be warranted, the only available MoT certificate, issued in 1985, records the mileage as 4,839. The machine is offered with the following:

• V5C Registration Certificate
• 1985 MoT certificate (recording 4,839 miles)
• Haynes workshop manual
• Various invoices dating from the 1980s to 2023

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 (the engine turns over). Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Offered with key