Description
This motorcycle is Lot 126 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 126
c. 1961 Triumph 500cc TR5A/ C Competition Special
Registration no. Unregistered
Frame no. H22911
Engine no. TR5C H22911
When Triumph adopted unitary construction for its vertical twins, the 5TA Speed Twin (introduced in September 1958) would be the second model of this new family, joining the 350cc Twenty One/ 3TA launched the previous year. The first sports version of the 5TA - the Tiger 100A - was introduced for the 1960 season. The USA had long been Triumph's most important market and over the years the company would produce a succession of models specifically to meet American requirements, many of them being off-road types. Produced during 1961 only, the TR5A/ C was the first factory competition model based on the new unitary construction twin. Only 635 were built and relatively few survive, as is so often the case with motorcycles subjected to the vicissitudes of competition.
The incomplete example we offer appears to be configured as a hill climber or desert racer. It comes with two Certificates of Title: one issued in Washington State in 1965 and the other in Colorado, and has 'Steel Breeze Racing' decals to the oil tank. Other notable features include twin Amal carburettors; Falcon shock absorbers; kill-switch beneath saddle; lengthened swinging arm; and long-travel front forks. This machine is offered with a NOVA declaration. There are no other documents with this Lot, which is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
