Winning bid
£3,500

1997 Triumph Speed Triple

Highlights 

  • Low mileage 
  • Great condition
  • Capable bike 
  • Only had a one-year production run
  • Rare bike 

The Background 

There are many stories as to how the Speed Triple came about. One of the most interesting tales is that a Triumph employee ended up crashing a sports bike, losing much of its fairings, and everybody decided the resulting aesthetic was a smasher.

However, the more likely story is that the Speed Triple was a quick and easy way for Triumph to bolster their production numbers, with this bike borrowing many of its parts from a Daytona 900. It was hoped that the mean and sleek look of the Speed Triple would bring in younger clients for Triumph to help with their age demographic.

For one year only, Triumph produced a 750cc version of the Speed Triple. Thanks to this short time in production, the Speed Triple 750cc is now a rare and sought-after bike.
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The History and Paperwork

  • First registered on April 1st 1997
  • Serviced and inspected at a Northampton dealership in the same year
  • Since MOT records began in 2006 it's over covered around 6,000 miles
  • It should be noted that the bike's MOT expired in May 2021
  • Featured in Bike Magazine in 2006
  • Currently indicates 17,029 miles - however, this is on a five-figure odometer and can't be verified
  • Currently based in Grantham, where it's dry-stored under a cover
  • The paperwork file includes:
    • Original service record book and handbook
    • A collection of tax discs
    • A series of MOT certificates
    • Invoices for work done and servicing
    • Equifax HPI check
    • Datatag paperwork
    • Copy of the bike's magazine appearance
    • Haynes Service and Repair Manual

The Condition

Stylish, minimalistic and stealthy, the aesthetics of this bike are a sight to behold. The limited cladding and bodywork is in superb condition, with no cracks or major signs of wear that we can highlight, and the black paintwork presents well with generous lashings of branding.

If we take a look at what could be considered as the “interior” of a bike, the seat, handlebars, and instrument binnacle all appear to be in good order, with every dial clear and readable.  The seat specifically is in great condition with no rips, tears, or stains to the main rider’s seat - nor to the rear seat, which can be covered with a plastic panel to keep the bike's sporting aesthetic.   

The overall appearance is superb, with a sporty look that feels aggressive and well-appointed in equal measure, with no major faults we can highlight and only the gentlest signs of age.
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The Mechanics 

  • 4-stroke, 3-cylinder 750cc engine
  • 5-speed transmission
  • 25L fuel tank
  • 216kg when 'wet'
With this being the limited production Triple 750cc, the bike boasts an impressive 89hp on tap and only weighs 209kg. That's a recipe for superb performance.

With most of the parts from a Speed Triple coming from the Daytona, the rideability is up there with the best. This was one of the bikes that put Triumph on the map, with the Italians finally sitting up and realising that this Hinckley-based bike builder was able to compete with their offerings.

This bike is in great mechanical condition, with it firing straight up on the day of the photoshoot and idling nicely.
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The Appeal 

Few people remember that the 750cc variant of the Speed Triple was ever in production. That one-year cycle meant that these things have become a rare, but exciting niche. Whether it's going to become your daily, or a curiosity you just can't resist popping into your garage, it's a hugely rewarding, impressive bike for even the most seasoned collector. 
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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Auction Details

  • Year1997
  • MakeTriumph
  • ModelSpeed Triple 750
  • ColourBlack
  • Odometer17,029 Miles
  • Engine size749cc
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • CountyHerefordshire
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

Bidding history

10 Bids from 7 bidders

darren-••••
Bid
£3,500
04/05/23
gtr.lov••••
Bid
£2,100
04/05/23
Liffy16••••
Bid
£1,900
04/05/23
gtr.lov••••
Bid
£1,700
04/05/23
Liffy16••••
Bid
£1,500
01/05/23
RDonova••••
Bid
£1,000
29/04/23
Drdocto••••
Bid
£800
28/04/23
J.S.Rya••••
Bid
£700
28/04/23
Drdocto••••
Bid
£600
27/04/23
Loctite••••
Bid
£500
27/04/23

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