Highlights
- Custom hardtail rear end frame
- Striking metal flake sunburst artwork
- Triumph TR6 750cc engine
The Appeal
The art of ‘bobbing’ motorcycles originated in the United states during the 1930s, where people would remove the front mudguard, cut down the rear end and shed as much surplus weight as possible from ageing motorcycles. Doing this gave the bikes in question a rather distinctive appearance and today the bobber movement has seen something of a resurgence, with manufacturers even offering bobbed motorcycles straight out of the factory.
What we have here is an old school hardtail bobber, built upon a 1969 Triumph TR6 frame and engine. Finished in a vibrant paint scheme which is a work of art in itself, the result is a stunning custom motorcycle that has the power to turn heads wherever it goes.
Having covered just a single mile since completion, this awesome custom bike is ready to be enjoyed, or else displayed. It’s an amazing feat of artistic and engineering ability and would be a worthy addition to any garage or even art gallery.
The History and Paperwork
- Built by Mick Barton Triumph specialist and restorer
- Record of work completed
- 1 mile covered since the build
- V5C present
- MOT and road tax exempt
The Condition
- Handmade custom Birdman seat
- Aftermarket hardtail rear end
- Custom metal flake sunburst paint scheme
- Custom made and chromed rear number plate holder
If you like your motorcycle to stand out from the crowd, then you couldn’t do much better than to acquire this one…
That blue and orange custom paint scheme is a far cry from subtle and features a deep gloss finish with some heavy metal flake. It has evidently been completed to an exceptionally high standard and should rightly be considered as art. Having been ridden just one mile since completion, there is no damage we could discern anywhere on the bike and the vendor informs us that it is in immaculate condition.
Featuring an 8 ball motif and an inset speedometer, the custom tank is resplendent in its sunburst paint finish, really showcasing the artist’s prowess to the greatest possible extent. The contrasting blue frame is lavishly adorned in metal flake and really looks ace.
The vendor informs us that the seat was designed and handmade in the US by Birdman and it really suits the custom character of the bike. Frame-wise, the standard front end was de-lugged and the rear end bobbed with a hardtail rear end fitted. Standard Triumph front forks are reused, although they now have shuttle valve damping. The rear wheel hub is also a standard item although the front wheel is apparently from a Honda 350. All the spokes are stainless and the period-style tyres are in good order.
The vendor reports that the bike features a ‘70s twisted side stand, rechromed handlebars and finned aluminium exhaust clamps. According to the build sheet, the grips are finished in ‘coke bottle’ metal flake. The levers are polished aluminium and there is a retro pre-unit Triumph horn button. The chain case and roller tensioner are finned aftermarket items and the original square brake rods are utilised.
The Mechanics
- Morgo 750cc big bore kit
- Heavy duty con rods
- Triumph T140 flywheel and cams
- 32mm Amal carbs
- Bonneville head with bigger valves and lightened rockers
- New main bearings, big end bearing and primary chains
- Webco finned oil feed with finned engine plates
The drama of this motorcycle’s appearance is matched equally by its performance. The vendor informs us that this Triumph originally had a 650cc parallel twin, but is now a 750 with a Bonneville head and Morgo big bore kit. Running 32mm Amal carburettors, this TR6 is quite faithful to period bobbers, using old school performance parts and methods to coax more power out of that legendary Triumph engine. It does however, feature modern electronic ignition, with a high rate coil, ensuring a consistently strong spark.
Controls come courtesy of a responsive Doherty aluminium throttle, and custom made nylon lined cables by Venhill. Having been ridden a mere mile since completion, few have had the chance to experience how this bobber rides. The vendor informs us that it runs exceptionally well and is really loud. On the short test drive, we are told that the bike performed well, accelerating through the gears and braking in a straight line.
Summary
True to the spirit of pioneering bike customisers, this Triumph TR6 is a true assault on the senses. To look at, it takes your breath away and to hear it run is quite the event.
Whatever the future holds for this motorcycle, we’re sure that it will attract a great deal of attention and adoration from all those who see it.
