Description
This motorcycle is Lot 46 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online January Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between January 17th through January 27th, with lots closing from midday January 27th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 22nd January 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 46
1963 Triumph 199cc T120 Tiger Cub
Registration no. 991 LPX
Frame no. T20 90944
Engine no. T20 74917 (see text)
"Britain's lowest-priced '200', the Triumph T20 Tiger Cub, impresses even a seasoned tester with its outstandingly good all-round performance and value. This four-stroke lightweight is game for a genuine 64-65mph; it will cruise energetically all day in the mid-fifties; and it will return fuel consumption figures little short of remarkable, whatever the throttle openings used." - Motor Cycling.
With the introduction of the 149cc Terrier in 1952, Triumph re-entered the market for lightweight commuter machines. A simple, compact, unitary construction four-stroke with four-speed gearbox, the Terrier was joined in 1954 by an enlarged version - the 200cc Tiger Cub - that offered 60mph-plus performance and 100mpg. An immense success, particularly with younger riders, the Cub underwent continual development for the next 16 years, finally ending up with BSA Bantam cycle parts (as the Bantam Cub) before being dropped in 1970. The model remains a favourite with today's collectors, many of whom would have commenced their riding career on a Cub, and is well served by an extensive network of parts suppliers and other specialists.
Our vendor purchased this Tiger Cub in pieces in 1992 and built it up. Cub and Terrier specialists CJS Engineering carried out much of the mechanical refurbishment. The latter included an engine/ gearbox rebuild, fitting a Morgo high-volume oil pump, conversion to 12V electrics and electronic ignition, and much more besides, all of the foregoing works being completed in December 2021. CJS's detailed bill is on file and the machine also comes with its original logbook (noting a change of engine to the current '74917' in 1970); some other bills and correspondence; a Triumph Owners MCC dating letter; a few expired MoTs; and a V5C Registration Document.
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.
