ton up classics

1967 Triumph Trophy Special TR6C. SOLD!!!

2012-01-10T09:38:00.000-08:00

After spending the last couple of years restoring a few Pre Unit Triumphs, it was time to change things up and get stuck into a Unit 650. Next up on the bench was this now completed 1967 Trophy Special TR6C.

Purchased last year and restored this year over the course of 5 months. The highlight of this restoration was the fact that I was able to score an original new old stock Petrol Tank. This to me was very exciting as I try to build my bikes as close to factory specs as possible and with this tank being painted by some chap in a shirt and tie and pipe in his mouth at the Triumph factory in 1966 was ideal for my quest for originality.

Finished in Mist Green over White and lined in gold. A very hard color to duplicate, seen many of these bikes restored but not many with the correct shade of green. Also the way the gold lining meets the front and rear ends of the Tank Badges is interesting as is the separating line under the knee pad rubbers being so low. Restorers take note!

650cc Twin Cylinder, High Level Exhaust system and Energy Transfer Ignition.

For 1967 Triumph used Cylinder Head bolts with the manufacturers initials on the heads. This detail can be seen in the photo below. Cylinder Head and Rocker Box finishes are close to original. Not blasted with a dull matt finish.

Seat hinged open reveals the original refinished seat pan which was used along with a new foam and original seat cover.

External Fork Springs with internal damper rods. The damper rods were fitted as standard to 1966 and 1967 Competition machines.

Shot of the Fork Intenals.

Wheels are laces with Buchanan's Stainless Steel Spokes. Dunlop Rims were re-plated.

Earlier this year whilst at the Davenport Swapmeet in Iowa I was able to score an original Made in England 3.50-19 Dunlop Trials Universal Tire. Extremely hard to find.

Rear Tire is the currently available Dunlop 803. Tail Lamp as with all other Electical items are genuine Lucas.

Correct E.T. Coils can be seen under the tank as well as the Electric Horn. Correct clips retain wiring and cables.

Many new old stock parts were used including the Handlebars.

Stainless Steel Fenders front and rear. The rear Fender still with all the wiring retaining clips (not found on reproduction types).

Riders view, Handlebar features the Kill button on the right and the Horn button on the left. Many US dealers installed the switch on the left side.

I opted to go with an original seat cover, the reproductions available today are not my cup of tea. This cover is in excellent condition with the logo still present, the safety strap was restored also.

Skid Plate fitted as standard to the "C" Models. Good shot of the Crankcase finish. These cases have not been blasted.

Energy Tranfer AC Ignition system does not require a Battery, here is the empty compartment where the Battery sits on the Street models. Old stock Lucas Harness can be seen as well as correct Breather Tube routing as well as Chain Oiler Tube. Waterslide decals also present on the Oil Tank.

Rebuilt Smiths Speedometer is run by a new Rear wheel Drive Gearbox and Smiths cable. Headlamp houses the Light Switch, Dip Switch and Warning Light

This shot of the front wheel captures the many finishes on the machine including polished aluminium, chrome plating, cadmium plating, powder coating and stainless steel. Both Wheels were built with new Bearings and Brake Shoes.

Steering damper anchor assembly can be seen from this shot. Steering Head Bearings were renewed.

New Old Stock Exhaust Pipes were fitted (also at great expense). The pipes that came on it when I purchased it were from a 1969 model. After buying a set of pattern pipes that had a more than awful fit I found this old stock set. Night and day, what a great fit. Also check out the welds that were ground and smoothed originally.

Much has been said about the '67 TR6 being an excellent engine. After engine number DU59320 the Amal Monobloc was replaced by the new Concentric type. A new one can be found here. Easy starting, excellent idle and easy to tune.

Engine was treated to a complete overhaul with all new English made Bearings and Seals. Rowe Black Diamond Valves and Guides were installed in the Head. Built to stock specifications. Standard compression with .020 Pistons.

Crankshaft Sludge Trap was cleaned, this one was half full.

Clutch and Transmission parts laid out prior to assembly, lots of new stuff here including the English Made Chainwheel and Renolds Chain.

All new Bearings, Springs and Seals in the Gearbox.

The bike just has 5 test miles, these were performed with no issues, everything doing what it says it does on the tin. Many hours of work and money invested in this project and I am very pleased and proud of how it came out. As close to a new bike in 1967 as they come!

Before and after shots on the bench.

1967 Triumph Motorcycle Brochure

2011-11-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

By 1967 Triumph were enjoying great success with the bike, especially in the US, here is a brochure for the years US models.

The Bonneville T.T. Special was the hot rod of the range, built as a full on Racer, High Compression Racing Pistons, High Lift Cams, no lights and bigger Carbs were the main items that differed from the standard T120R Bonneville.

Many say the TR6 from 1967 was one of the best Triumphs to ride with it's easy to maintain single Carburetor. The TR6C was the off road version sold with E.T. Ignition and Trials Tires.

The Mountain Cub sold like hot cakes proving to be a very popular machine since it's introduction in 1964.

First Place At The Quail!

2011-05-17T10:22:00.000-07:00

I would like to take this opportunity to blog briefly about The Quail Motorcycle Gathering held last weekend at the stunning Quail Lodge Golf Course in Carmel California. The wife and I decided to make a weekend of it for a quick getaway and thought it would be cool to see the Bikes on display on the Lawn and also check out the Bonham's auction in the Club House. The day became a very special occasion when a Motorcycle I had restored and then sold was entered into the show and came away with first place in it's class.

The bike in question is a 1957 Triumph TR6 that I spent the best part of 2010 restoring. The restoration is featured in a post from January this year.

(http://tonupclassics.blogspot.com/2011_01_01_archive.html)

Rob Jordan and myself enjoying the day, Rob is an old friend of mine from the our days in Norwich, he purchased the Bike for his collection after the restoration was completed.

Neither of us expected the award, the competition was something else. It was in the European Class to 1978 so it was not only up against the best of British but also very tasty Italian Ducati's and Laverda's, German BMW's amongst others.

I nearly dropped my pint when the yellow tag was placed on the parcel Grid! Very tasteful Tiffany award will be a nice addition to Rob's Sideboard.

Rob and I with Geoff Giamarco who was responsible for the paint work. I was glad he was at the show to see his work "Triumph".

Highlight of the show was Rollie Free and his Vincent that he rode across the salt at well over a ton in his underpants!

This BSA Gold Star has only 1 mile from new. Holy Grail for Goldie enthusiasts.

Velocette Clubman model.

Vincent cutaway engine displaying internals.

Very tasty Sidecar combo.

Vincents were obviously well represented.

Norton Manx, need to get me one of these!

Unrestored Velo.

John Player Norton, got to ride one of these many years ago, sticks out in my memory has being a load of fun.

Dunstall Dominator, very nice.

My girl Edie.

A very proud day that I will not forget in a hurry.

Here is a link to Robert receiving his award.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxlZ_ET7anc

1950's VINTAGE LEWIS LEATHERS MOTORCYCLE CATALOG

2011-03-11T10:06:00.000-08:00

Just came across some scans of a very cool '50's Lewis Leathers Catalog featuring all the best in Motorcycle gear. Smashing cover graphics get things started.

Barbour still produce these Trials suits today.

Look out for the new Lewis Leathers range of Boots. Check out there website for more info but I have seen them in person and can recommend them as some smart kit, especially the Westway boot.

Super-Jet, super cool....

The classic Bronx is still one of their best sellers.

This catalog came with product and shipping price lists.

As I said, check out their website for more info, http://www.lewisleathers.com

2006 Triumph Thruxton Cafe Racer

2011-03-09T08:47:00.000-08:00

It has been a few years since I sold my last modern Triumph, a '97 Speed Triple, and I was getting the urge for another push button bike. It did not take long to come to the conclusion that it had to be Triumph Thruxton. After a few months of looking I decided on this '06 model which only had 700 miles on it and was like new.

Love the way it sits. A very comfortable that ride that feels like a traditional British Twin.

Keeping with an unwritten Cafe Racer rule that the tallest part of the machine shall be the top of the Clocks. Triumph got it spot on.

Not too many mods as of yet, some Triumph Off Road Mufflers were essential as the stock items were nothing short of rubbish. Also the stock Tail Lamp and Turn Signals had to go.

I changed the Tank badges to the "Harmonica" or "Garden Gate" style that were used on the vintage Triumphs from 1957 to 1965, no other Badge comes close.

The blue reminds me of the original 1965 Thruxton.

Not a great fan of the checkered decals but I can live with them for now.

Bar end mirrors are quite effective.

I opted to retain the original rear fender, it seems that most prefer the Fender elimination kits that are on the market but not for me, this is a Caff Racer not street fighter.

Nice to have a bike that I can go some distance on without the reliablilty worries that come when out on my old classics. It has definitely rekindled my enthusiasm for riding. I am well pleased I opted for this Bike.

1957 Triumph TR6 Restoration

2011-01-14T08:42:00.000-08:00

This 1957 Triumph TR6 is the latest machine to emerge from the Ton Up Classics restoration department. This sporting off road model was consistently a winner in it's day, taking the lead at Scrambles events such as the Catalina Grand Prix, Big Bear Enduro amongst many others. The bike of choice for many was the TR6, a popular model amongst racers such as Bud Ekins, Bill Postel, Roger White amongst others.

Here are a few pictures of what I started with, a rough old bike that I knew would test my skills, frozen motor and all that goes with it.

The bike came to me with 2 others, a 1957 T110 Desert Sled and 1960 Tiger Cub Scrambler, all 3 were owned by a souther california racer by the name of Bob Rickard, he raced Triumphs in the 1950's and became a winner that began riding for Honda in 1961, winning a scrambles event at Daytona in 1963.

Last registered in 1959! It was parked at that time and a few parts were borrowed to keep Rickards Desert Sled racing campaign alive.

After a visit to the Alignment Shop the Frame and other Cycle parts were stripped bare and many hours of prep were necessary to rid of unwanted pitting and wear to get the finish I wanted.

New Swinging Arm bushing are a must, nearly always worn out due to lack of grease.

New Steering Head Cups and Cones and ball bearings were needed to replace the old pitted and worn parts, I prefer using the original loose balls and races than the available tapered needle roller bearings because I find the final fit a bit better.

This picture shows the Front End parts ready for assembly. New Tubes, Bushings and Seals are fitted as a matter of course.

The Heart of the engine, the Crankshaft.

The Pre Unit Triumph used a 3 Piece Crankshaft that is held together by 6 Hi-Tensil Bolts. It is essential to split the Crank in order to clean out the Sludge Trap, years of sludge collects here and they always need cleaning.

Hight strength bolts rarely fail when installed correctly.

Here is a rare sight, an un-cracked 8 Bolt Alloy Cylinder Head. Pre Unit Heads were prone to cracking between the Valve Seat and Stud hole, I was suprised how nice this was considering the condition of the Engine when starting out. This picture taken after a Valve Job.

Transmission parts were donated from a spare 1963 Unit Engine I had kicking around, the original Gears were not worn but had pitted over the years sitting and I did not want tp re-use them, the parts from the unit box were in excellent condition and the swap over was simple. The only snag was with the Speedo Drive on the end of the layshaft, this had to be swapped as the unit drives are slightly larger. Obviously worn parts were replaced, in the Gearbox I fitted a new Camplate, Sprocket, High Gear Bush, Thrust Washers and the Bushes that the Layshaft run in were converted to Needle Roller Bearings.

This picture shows the Primary Drive, new parts throughout.

As with all my restorations, each and every part gets attention, I prefer Powder Coating on most of the Cycle parts although Tanks, Chainguard, Tool Box and Fork Covers are all professionally sprayed. Hardware is Cadmium plated, I am very aware of using the correct fasteners in all the correct places, absolutely no hardware store stuff here.

Finally a few pictures of the finished build. Is there a better looking Triumph Front Brake?

The original 376/40 Amal Carburetor was restored and put back into service.

Engine and Transmission covers are polished and buffed.

The original bakelite Lodge Plug Caps are nice surviving features.

Dunlop Trials Tires, high level exhaust and quickly detachable lighting meant that this bike could be converted from street to off-road in minutes.

This shot gives a good look at the 1" Bars, Chronometric Speedometer, Q/D Head Lamp and the Parcel Grid.

Special attention is always paid to reproducing an authentic looking seat, I find most reproduced items to be for the most part odd looking, a bad seat can destroy the lines of an otherwise tasty machine.

In my opinion 1957 was a great year for the Triumph range, the TR6 was offered in both Road (TR6A) and Off Road (TR6B) forms. The '57 line up also included the mighty Tiger 110, Thunderbird, Tiger 100, TR5, Speed Twin and Tiger Cub.

This TR6 has a new home in a collection in Northern California, I am proud to announce that the new owner has reported back to me letting me know how happy he is with this machine, not only how nicely it displays but also how well it runs.

Black Leather Jacket

2010-12-07T10:48:00.000-08:00

The black leather jacket, the essential motorcycle accessory. Here on the old blog I want to post some Jackets I own and have owned at one time.

First off is this Mascot which is still in service today. This style of Mascot is probably my favorite of all British Leathers.

A few old pins and patches to personalize!

This is a Lewis Lightning. Jacket of choice for many, also a popular choice for rock n roll artists, worn by The Clash amongst many others.

Aviakit was the name given by Lewis for the range of clothing originally specified for Aviation enthusiasts.

Another Mascot.

Buco were one of the best US manufactures and there products still make good money when offered on the market.

The Jacket in the Cafe Racer style described at the time by Buco as a "Leather Shirt". I purchased this with a pair of Buco pants, both from the 1950's.

Still in service todya, I need to get the Jacket relined.

This is an old Shott that I purchased from Leathers and Treasures on Melrose Avenue back in the 1980's. It was my Jacket of choice at this time.

Now retired it hangs in my workshop.

A great Jacket from the Star Glove Company from Los Angeles, this Jacket dated from the 1940's and was the shape of thing to come, a few years ahead of it's time.

Unidentified Cafe Racer Jacket, made in the USA.

Harley Davidson produced Clothing for their Riders all the way back to the 1930's. This Jacket is from the AMF day of the 1970's.

Next up are 2 examples of Cal Leathers. First is a racing suit and after a Highway Patrol Jacket.

Cal Leathers was a popular company that supplied many Motorcycle Cops with there kit.

Lewis Leathers racing suit from the 1950's. This one has been around the Isle of Mann a few times!

Frame for a Racing Number.

Classic unidentified Horse Hide jacket from the 1950's.

Now for Langlitz, a company in Portland Oregan that is still making quality products today and have been doing so since the late 1940's.
This is a Racing suit, 2-pieces in Horsehide.

An early example of a Langlitz, excellent quality, one of the best.

Finally a pair for the Ladies. Harley Davidson Jackets from the 1950s and 1970's.

1947 Triumph Tiger 100 & Dusting Sidecar

2010-08-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a selection of photographs of my 1947 Triumph Tiger 100 and Dusting Sidecar. This outfit has been together since the 40's. Triumph obviously of English origin, Dusting Sidecars were from Australia. This Car's serial number dates it from the mid 1940's. Mounted on the left side it provides an additional thrill to those seated in the chair facing oncoming traffic and all!

Amazing that such a fine machine came off the production line in 1947, just 2 years after victory in Europe. The 500cc Vertical Twin provides plenty of power, easily pulling the Sidecar.

The Tiger 100 came in a Rigid Frame, 19" wheels front and back and Sprung Hub pretending to act as rear suspension (the rear Wheel Hub has a large box spring inside that allows a small amount of travel within).

One of the neatest features of these Post War twins is the Instrument Panel mounted in the middle of the Petrol Tank. This panel houses the Ammeter, Oil Pressure Guage, Lighting Switch and Trouble Light, pure class!!.

Fitted with the optional Smiths Revulator. This is a Speedometer and Tachometer combined, although by the time you work out the RPM's you would have probably ran into the car in front!

YOM License plate an essential part of any vintage Motor Cycle, those modern plates just don't cut it.

Riding or should I say driving this rig is a load of fun, keeps you on your toes and is completely different to riding a convention Motorcycle. Not been in the chair myself but those who have say it was an experience. I will take their word for it......

Available for Movie and Advertising rental.

Pre Unit Triumph Wheel Lacing Chart

2010-07-08T11:50:00.000-07:00

I am currently restoring a 1957 Triumph TR6 and I was searching high and low for Wheel Building Specs, well I found 'em and for those of you that care, here is a Wheel Building Chart presented in the 22nd Triumph and Ariel Annual Dealers Meeting notes from 1960.

I Kicked the Motor Cycle Habit, Von Dutch 1959

2010-07-08T10:28:00.000-07:00

I Kicked The Motor Cycle Habit as told by Chuck Clayton, illustrated by Von Dutch, plucked this neat story from the January 1959 Issue of the worlds greatest Motorcycle Magazine (for the 3 years it was around 1957-1959), features some cool illustrations by Von Dutch, I don't think this piece has had too much exposure over the years although I did forward it to the editors a good Von Dutch book published a few years ago (still waiting for me Comp copy Aarron!). Sorry that the layout is a bit wobbly, just click on each piece to get a full size image.

1952 Triumph Motorcycle Brochure

2010-06-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

1952 Was a terrific year for Triumph range, as the first page of the catalog states, Performance, Stamina and Quality.

Pictured below the Thunderbird came in a polychromatic blue. What a great looking bike with power to match the handsome lines, like I have said before on this blog, rigid frames are where it's at.

Traditional models such as the Tiger 100 and Speed Twin were the 500cc Twins of the range as well as the sporting TR5 Trophy.

The previously mentioned TR5, , quite different to the Road models, a lightweight 500cc Twin that competed nicely in Trials and Scrambles events, pictured here alongside some of the features of the line including the Sprung Hub, a method of rear suspension that incorporated a large heavy Spring Box within the Wheel Hub, now famous Headlamp Nacelle that housed the Speedometer, Ammeter, Lighting Switch and Kill Button all in a tidy Headlamp enclosure, the Alloy Cylinder as used on TR5 Models, the detachable rear Fender for easy Wheel Removal and the Racing Kit available to boost power on any Twin.

The Best Motor Cycle in the world, some may argue but more will agree.....

1957 Triumph T110 Desert Sled

2010-04-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

I guess you can call this survivor as "barn fresh", it is a 1957 Triumph Tiger 110, 650cc's of pure grunt, ready to take on any punishment the desert has to offer. I purchased this amazing Desert Racer from the original owners surviving family, it was owned and raced by a chap called Bob Rickard, he raced this Triumph at Scrambles and Desert events in Southern California during the late 1950's, in 1960 Bob started racing for Honda and continued to do so through the 1960's, his greatest accomplishment was winning a Scrambles event at Daytona in 1963, competing on a 305 Honda. This T110 as well as '59 Tiger Cub Scrambler and '57 TR6 sat together in a shed after all being parked in the very early 1960's, after the walls of the shed fell down it was time for the Family to move them on.

Desert Sled was a name given to these stripped down racers, this bike is as authentic as they come, loads of cool aftermarket items make this a great example of such machines that competed at events at Big Bear Lake and the Catalina G.P. just to name two.

Street equipment such as Lighting, Fenders, Center and Side Stands, Twin Seat were removed.

Period aftermarket items include MCM High Pipes, Bates Racing Seat, Q Air Cleaner, Webco Quick Action Throttle, Alloy Rear Guard, oversize rear Sprocket and Folding Foot Pegs.

Q Air Cleaners were manufactured in the 1950s and 1960's out of Van Nuys here in Southern California, essential for raing in the dirt and sand.

Webco produced these Quick Action Throttles, making it able to get that Throttle wide open with less of a twist than the stock item.

Bates Racing seat has survived well, still good and soft.

Very rare high capacity Oil Tank, I believe this is a Factory Item that was made for the Factory TR5 and T100 Racers.

It was common practice to cover home made folding Foot Pegs with Garden Hose, details like this get lost after restoration.

Slash cut high Pipes by MCM replaced the stock T110 system.

No frills, this beast is all business.

Dunlop Trials Universal Tires were the Racers choice.

Desert Sleds took loads of stick whilst in action, when desert racing you did not go around obstacles, you steamrolled right through 'em.

I have to say that I am unsure of what might become of this bike, the right offer may pry it from my hands but i have to say that to me it should be left a survivor, maybe fire it up one day soon and head out to the dirt.

Cafe Racers, Rockers, Rock 'n' Roll and the Coffee Bar Cult

2010-03-30T10:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a quick tip on some good reading, Cafe Racers, Rockers, Rock 'n' Roll and the Coffee Bar Cult by Mike Clay and Bill Shergold, a 196-page hardback published in 1988, one of the excellent and now sought after Osprey first editions is getting hard to find although later editions I believe are now available. Chapters include Origins of the Species, Goldie Years, Triumph Twins, Featherbed Frame Up, Norvin and Others, Twins and Big Singles, Mods and Rockers and the Headless Motorcyclist, Decline of the Cafe Society and the Great Revival. Tons of excellent photographs many in color, as well as interesting text, includes Triumph, BSA, Harley Davidson, Enfield, Norton, Vincent, Honda, Matchless, Ducati, Dunstall, Dresda, Velocette amongst tons more.

Machine of choice here appears to be the Triumph Twin.

Check out the tasty BSA Rocket Gold Star with an updated front stopper. The bike on the lower left is a Rickman Interceptor.

Featherbed Framed Specials pictured below include a pair of Norvins (Norton Frame, Vincent Engine), Norton Dominator 88 and a Triton (Norton Frame, Triumph Engine).

The John Player Norton has to be one of the most exciting Bikes I have had the chance of riding, we had one in at a Shop I was working at, the "extended" test ride was a joy, never had the chance to ride a genuine Manx.

Definitely one to look out for, highly recommended.

1952 Triumph Thunderbird

2010-03-23T09:01:00.000-07:00

Rigid Frame Triumphs (manufactured prior to 1954) are among the best of them all, my old Thunderbird from 1952 is a machine that I have owned for around 10 years after importing from a dealer in Australia where it was dispatched to from the Triumph Factory back in 1952.

All home and general export machines during 1952 were subject to a nickel restriction due to the Korean War, therefor these models came with limited amounts of Chrome Plating, Wheels and Handlebars that usually came bright were covered in Paint, Spokes and all.

The famous Head Lamp Nacelle houses the Speedometer, Ammeter and Light Switch.

The Rigid Frame is given some suspension via the Sprung Hub, this allows about an inch of up and down travel within the rear wheel.

The Twinseat was introduced as an optional extra in 1952, I switch from this to the solo Lycett Saddle once in a while.

Period License Plates are a must on my old Classics Bikes.

SU Carburetor and BTH Magneto, I love the old SU, why many people replaced it with an Amal I do not know.

Still with it's original Tyre Pump, no chance of me fixing a puncture on the side of the road, no need for that nonsense anymore, get the cell phone out and call for help in that event!

A fantastic Engine design that remained basically the same for decades, this old bike is getting up to 80,000 miles and still runs very well, mostly reliable with most grief coming from the dim Lighting. A machine that I would have a really hard time selling and would certainly miss, this is the same machine that I took the missus out on on our first date but that is another story altogether!!

Currently part of the stable of Bikes at Ton Up Classics, this machine is available for Photo Shoots and Movie Work, email for details.

1956 Triumph TR5/R Road Racer

2010-03-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

For 1956 Triumph offered the TR5/R in limited numbers for those Riders interested in the best possible 500cc attainment, factory records show that 112 TR5/R's were produced, this one being the 72nd, they were built for street use with easy conversion to race trim with quick detachable lighting.

Basically, 112 standard TR5 Machines were pulled off the production line and sent over to the Racing Shop where each engine was stripped and rebuilt to "Red Seal" condition, meaning each engine was equipped with the latest Racing Camshafts and Tappets, high compression Pistons, dual Racing Amal Carburetors, Racing Exhaust System with dual inverted cone Megaphones, Racing Lucas Magneto, Folding Rear Set Pegs as well as other racing items.

Most if not all machines were sent to the US, meant for circuits such as Daytona, Watkins Glen and Willow Spring to name a few, it retailed for $959.00 and had to be special ordered due to it's limited numbers.

This TR5 was sold by Guy Urquhart in San Diego and was used just on the street, never on the track, it last registered in 1983.

After being assembled each engine was tested on a Dynamometer to insure maximum performance.

Plug under the Headlamp was simply removed to disconnect the Headlamp from the main Harness, once unbolted the Headlamp can be removed in minutes.

Photo below shows the Float Bowl Mounting, it was attached to the Tool Box and Oil Tank.

Spark proved from a Lucas Racing Magneto.

Rear Set Foot Rests can be seen above and below, the right side peg folds to allow the Kick Start Lever to crank, the left side is fixed although to comply with AMA Racing regulations, the left side Peg had to be replaced with that of a folding type.

Inverted Cone or more commonly known as Reverse Cone Mega's let the neighbors know your are around.

The TR5 came standard with a Speedometer, the Tachometer was an optional extra. Don't you just love Smiths Chrono's.

Air Scoop on the front Brake Plate, this became standard equipment on the 1957 TR6 and T110, a fantastic looking Brake.

When I purchased the TR5/R, a 1948 Tiger 100 came as part of the package, I still do not know how lucky I was that day back in 2004 when they came my way, I went down to San Diego in my old '59 El Camino to pick them up, I remember filling up the bed to the max, the truck was loaded up like the Jodes heading west! truly a great day, at the time I did not even know what I had, not till I got home and started researching my find. Check out the consecutive Plate numbers, these 2 have got to remain together!

Each Bike was sold with a Build Sheet from Johnson Motors, there were a pair of these with mine so I had them framed to display all the specs and details of the machines.

A sweet piece of Triumph racing history that I am well happy to own, not sure on how many have survived, specially in the un-restored condition. Available for movie and photo rental.

1956 Triumph Motorcycle Brochure

2010-03-11T09:04:00.000-08:00

Triumph Motor Cycle Catalog for the 1956 Range, includes the 6T Thunderbird, Tiger 100, TR6 and TR 5 Trophy, Tiger 110, Speed Twin, Tiger Cub and Terrier Models, also includes Technical Specifications, Horse Power Graph, A Background of Technical Excellence and Features, factory catalogue includes 12-pages with excellent graphics and text

1947 Norton Motorcycle Catalog

2010-03-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

1947 Sales Brochure for the Unapproachable Norton Motor Cycle Range including the Models 16H, Model 18, 20, ES2, International 30/50, Manx 30/50, Trials Machine and Model G Sidecar, features 12-pages of excellent graphics and details of every model, includes 1946 Racing Successes and the Features that count,

1940's Vintage Motorcycle Racing Photographs Set4

2010-03-02T09:08:00.000-08:00

Set 4 includes a bunch of Dirt Track Racing Shots, Harley Twins, Triumph Twins, Ariel and AJS Singles and more....

Spectators get a chance to win a new 1947 Sunbeam, love the Dealers Pick Up Truck, BSA Logo can be seen on the back of the Cab.

Unknown Rider aboard a Triumph 500cc Twin, check out the cool Exhaust Pipes, up-swept and one on each side, Flanders Bars and Risers also add period touches, it was typical for Racers to convert Stock Motorcycles by simply removing Lighting Equipment as well as all unnecessary cycle parts adding a Racing Seat and some High Performance Engine goodies.

Signed by Roy Andres aboard a 750 Twin, Springer Front Ends were still the order of the day.

Pair of Triumph Twins on the left, I believe an Ariel Single followed by n Indian Twin, a neat line up.

This Matchless Rider enjoying a smoke.

Triumph Twin, 2 into one pipe on the left, after-market kick stand can be seen under the Primary Chaincase.

Ariel Single giving it some....

Same race as the line up in #32, the Indian lost in a pile dirt.

Last not least an AJS hanging on thru a bend

1968 Paul Dunstall Cafe Racer Equipment

2010-02-23T08:28:00.000-08:00

If you were a Rocker in the 1960's it would be likely that Paul Dunstall was one of your suppliers of parts for your Caff Racer. This 1968 Catalog displays complete Bikes as well as Accessories and Speed Equipment.

Dunstall would custom build new Triumph and Nortons in his own special way, in the 1970's Japanese Bikes would become the focal point of his operation, Kawasaki Z1's Honda CB750 and such.

Accessory Racing Tanks were a must, available in Fiber Glass and Alloy.

Rear Set Foot Controls allow more comfort when laying over the Tank grabbing hold of a pair of Clip On Bars.

Twin Hydraulics back in the 1960's, the British Bike industry would catch up to Hydraulic Disc Brakes in the 1970's although I do not believe any production Triumph or Norton ever came with twin discs up front.

Twin Carburetor Manifolds conveniently made it possible to convert the Single Carb TR6 head into one that accommodates Twin Carbs without having to change the Cylinder Head, very popular today.

For a detailed history of Dunstall Motorcycles check out http://www.woodgate.org/dunstall/history

Ton Up Triton

2010-02-20T07:34:00.001-08:00

The Triton, Triumph Power mated to Norton Handling to create the perfect Hybrid, Triton's started to show up in England during the mid 1950's, mostly put together in the back yard sheds of wannabe Ton Up Lads striving for the machine that will put them in front of the pack. To me the Triton is the ultimate Cafe Racer, built specifically for the task in hand, to be the fastest. My Triton is the result of a 4 year build which began in 1992, taking so long mainly because of lack of funds which ended up being a blessing in disguise, it allowed me the time to think about exactly how I wanted it to look, based on the famous Norton Manx, this machine has given me around 15000 miles of pleasure to date, it has never left me stranded although I do recall having to push her once in a while! My Triton is the Bike I have owned longer than any other and obviously has a special place in my collection.

Basically the Slimline Featherbed Frame is from a 1967 Atlas and the Motor is a 1960 Pre Unit TR6 fitted with a 750cc Big Bore Kit, the engine is mostly stock, I prefer the stock engine with minor modifications for reliability as a apposed to full on race engine which would be less practical for street use, my goal was to get a bike that would crack the ton and this bike certainly has obliged.

Cafe Racer unwritten law states the Clocks must be at the highest point of the machine, this pair of Chronometric Clocks are a neat feature, 140MPH!

Tank is a genuine Alloy Short Track Manx, 3-1/2 Gallons.

Not as minty as when it was first built, this bike now has it share of minor battle scars which I do not mind, a machine that looks used usually has a story to tell, rather than others I have seen that spend too much time in the back of a pickup truck or Trailer.

Lucas K2F Magneto was replaced after 10,000 miles with an Electronic Ignition I fabricated from Norton Commando and Triumph Thunderbird parts, the only problem meant I am reliant on the Battery positioned behind the 4-Speed Triumph Gearbox, if kept charged up this is not really an issue.

Home made Alloy Engine plates position the Engine in just the right place, I favor the Pre Unit Engine for the ultimate Triton, the Unit Engine gets lost in the Featherbed and often ends up being all Engine Plate.

Stopping power from the 4-Leading Shoe Front Brake from the old '72 Suzuki Triple, a great Brake, very affordable at the time of purchase, quite a bit of work to get between the Norton Roadholder Forks but I t can be done.

Parked outside a local watering hole, if you ever find yourself in Highland Park, nip into Johnny's on York Blvd for a very refreshing Mug of Stella!

Available for Movie and Photo Work, email for details.

1970 Triumph Bonneville T120R

2010-02-18T09:47:00.001-08:00

This 1970 Triumph Bonneville is the latest Bike I have restored, completed and sold last December, this was the result of many hours spent in the Shop getting things right. The 1970 Bonneville is considered by many to be the pinnacle of the famous British Twin, this was the last year the 650cc was offered in it's traditional form before undergoing major changes for the '71 season that can only be described as a bad mistake. The Bonneville was introduced in 1959 and underwent changes on a yearly basis, by 1970 they had it sorted, excellent handling, braking and engine improvements that were truly beneficial.

1970 Bonnevilles were finished in Astral Red with Silver Scallops lined in Gold.

Handsome lines compliment this classic Roadster.

Twin Leading Shoe Front Brake provides plenty of stopping power.

Underseat view displays Battery Storage area.

Scallops were introduced in this fashion on Tanks in 1969, a clear American influence.

1940's Vintage Motorcycle Racing Photographs Set3

2010-02-16T08:58:00.001-08:00

Set 3 of the 1940's Racing Photographs include more Dirt Track Action, British and American machines competing for glory.

Trackside repairs, dodgy lighting and all, most of the racing events were night time affairs. Portrait below features an unidentified Indian Rider before a race.

Harley Riders tearing it up, period Jerseys are now fetching a good penny, Leathers or Levis with Lineman Boots was the Clothing of choice.

Neat shot of the starting line, Harley Ariel Single and Indian, looks like 243 on the back line needs a bump start.

I thinks this is a BSA Gold Star, not sure though.

J.A.P. Powered Speedway Racer.

Damaged goods?

Sideways into the bend not forgetting to avoid the bloody great wooden fence.

Signed portrait of Chuck Basney on a 1930 Rudge.

1953 Lewis Leathers Catalog.

2010-02-11T16:26:00.000-08:00

Original D.Lewis Clothing Catalog, 5th (enlarged) edition from 1953, includes 34-pages featuring the largest range of Motor Cycling, Motoring and Flying Outfits, includes Aviakit, and Trackstar Helmets, Leather Jackets, Trousers, Boots, Gloves, Goggles, Racing and Flying Suits, Coats and loads more cool stuff. Always had a soft spot for Lewis Jackets as well as Mascot and Belstaff, I will be posting some cool Jackets from England and US manufacturers such as Buco, Langlitz, Schott, Bates and Cal Leathers in the future.

Cover graphics promote the pure excitement of Motorcycling and Aviation, Lewis provided the best protection against the elements, like many things British, class and sophistication shines through!

1940's Vintage Motorcycle Racing Photographs Set2

2010-02-11T12:23:00.001-08:00

Set 2 of these fantastic Racing Photographs feature 1940's Hill Climb action, mostly Indian and Harley Davidson involved in these great action shots.

1936 Vincent Motorcycle Brochure

2010-02-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

This 1936 Vincent Motorcycle Catalog was sent to a Motor Cycle Enthusiast in Canada on request and comes with a cover letter on factory stationary signed by the Director of Vincent at the time, dated January 1936. The Catalog includes 16-pages and features Prices, Engine Details, General Specifications, The 500cc T.T. Model, Meteor, Comet, Comet Special, Spring Frame and Sidecars, Brake Details, Pillion Seat and Speedometer details as well as Testimonials and Press Coments.

Tuning the Triumph Tiger 100

2010-02-11T09:00:00.001-08:00

Tuning the Triumph Tiger 100, very rare factory book published in the early 1950s, covers eight stages in tuning the 500cc Twin using the available Racing Kit, includes general specifications, technical data, Carburetor settings, timing, Spark Plug recommendations for Racing, Tyre pressures and loads more, love to get my hands on one of those Race Kits in the Box, I have never even seen one.

1960 Triumph TR6

2010-02-11T08:28:00.000-08:00

I restored this 1960 Triumph TR6 back in 2004, it was sold at auction and is now in a collection in Florida, the TR6 was very successful for Triumph, introduced in 1956 it went on to sweep up at racing events in the Deserts of Southern California as well as other Scrambles events, it was the bike of choice for Bud Ekins who notched up many victories at these events, Ekins was a master of the Desert. The single Carburetor was preferred over the Bonneville as the additional Carb on the T120 held no advantage in the Dirt. Triumph introduced the Duplex Frame in 1960 although it only lasted two years before the introduction if the Unit Construction engine in 1963.

1940's Vintage Motorcycle Racing Photographs Set1

2010-02-09T11:32:00.001-08:00

Over the coming weeks I will be posting some cool old unpublished racing photo's that I would like to share, most were taken at west coast racing events in Washington and Southern California, some fantastic machines including Harley, Indian, Triumph, AJS, Matchless, Velocette, BSA, Ariel amongst others competing on Dirt Tracks and Hill Climbs, Unfortunately I have no knowledge as to the photographers. Stay posted!

The above picture features a great shot of what I think is a Crocker, certainly not a Triumph as seen on the Rider's Jersey, photographer catches the puff of smoke form the old boy in the white.
Below Triumph T100 and Rider Phil Careilla (not sure if that is right?), love this shot, make me think how fantastic these machines were when new, look at the Chrome on the Tank and the Flanders Bars. Cool looking Leather Jacket, typical of the 1940's era with those wide Lapels.

Triumph again sporting period Bates Saddles and custom Prop Stand that bolts up to the front Engine Plate, just how effective was that Sprung Hub....

BSA and Matchless Singles getting the front wheels off the ground.

AJS mounted Rider earns a Trophy.

Matchless Big Singles giving it some on a bend.

What a great line up, check out the bike 2nd from the left with the For Sale tag, still running a Head Lamp.

Loads going on in this shot, posing for a photo this Harley mounted Rider holds what looks like a Rim Tape in one hand and a Brew in the other, I wonder if he finished, looking at the Rear Wheel, I doubt it. Well cool Bobber, races with the Tail Lamp still on the rear Fender.

Velocette Single in the mud.

Quick snog for the winner!

1973 Triumph Hurricane X75

2010-02-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

The last BSA, packaged as a Triumph, Craig Vetter designed custom 750cc Triple, not really into triples but this is something else, great fun to ride, plenty of poke from the BSA Rocket Three Motor with a delightful exhaust note. This bike I purchased in San Jose and owned for about 16 months before moving it on, a nice original unrestored machine.

1968 Norton Fastback

2010-02-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

1968 Norton Fastback Commando, 750cc, first week production Commando, a very tasty machine I dug up in San Pedro, a totally original un-restored machine that was the 88th of the line, includes all the first year stuff that was exclusive for 1968. I enjoyed this machine for a couple of years before sending to the Netherlands to it's new owner, I still have a '69 Fastback and it is my main squeeze rider, I love it!

1967 Triumph Bonneville T120R

2010-02-02T08:32:00.000-08:00

1967 Triumph Bonneville T120R, this fine Bonneville underwent a full restoration during 2008 and now resides in Arizona, the 1967 model features Twin Amal Monobloc Carburetors, Stainless Fenders, 12-Volt Electrics and new design Twinseat, a very attractive machine.

1966 Triumph T120C T.T. Special

2010-01-28T10:21:00.000-08:00

1966 Triumph T120C T.T. Special, this bike I restored in 2007, it is now in the south of England and was featured in a UK Calender in 2009. The 1966 T.T. Special features 11:1 Compression Pistons, high performance Camshafts, 1-3/16" Amal Carburetors, Alloy Fenders, Energy Transfer Ignition (no Battery), Tachometer, 1-3/4" Open T.T. Pipes, a true factory Hot Rod.