Description
In 1971, Triumph resurrected the Tiger title for this roadster-style single-carb 650 twin which, like its twin-carb Bonneville brother, slotted in to the firm's new oil-in-frame chassis.
Carbs apart, the Tiger was almost identical to the Bonneville and had performance to spare, together with tractability, economy and smooth running.
Beautifully finished in striking colours, it was designed for hard work and relaxed riding. The best of both worlds... it's the bike which shows Triumph power can be as flexible as a foil. The secret is the big twin OH engine delivering 47bhp with its single carb, providing maximum flexibility with greater torque at lower rpm. The Tiger proved to be only slightly slower at the top end than the Bonneville, and it’s single Amal carb needed less fettling, but it still boasted gutsy grunt at low revs and better fuel economy. The Tiger delivered its maximum output at 6500pm while the Bonneville revved 500pm higher to provide maybe three or four more horsepower. The TR6R cost £488 new in 1971 while the T120R cost £525.
The oil-in-frame design was not without early teething problems however, and there were enough reported engine seizures for Triumph America, at least, to offer warranty replacement engines if they failed within the first 12 months.
This particular bike was imported to the U. K. from the USA back in the late 70’s, having been the recipient of one such factory replacement engine, and is still going strong some 50 years later. And, because it was a manufacturer replacement engine, the V5 was re-issued to show the new Engine number that now began with SR (Service Replacement).
The bike went on to undergo a full nut and bolt restoration some 20 odd years ago, and the petrol tank was professionally re-lined 5 years ago.
All in all a classic and beautiful Triumph, with possibly the best looking front brake of all time (conical hub), that can be used and enjoyed everyday.
OTR On The Road GBP £5, 940. 00
OTR Includes UK Registration (V5), Valet, PDI, HPI Certificate, MOT. 3 Months Warranty.
