1955 Triumph Motorcycles - 3-Page Vintage Article

Description

1955 Triumph Motorcycles - 3-Page Vintage Article
Original, Vintage Magazine article
Page Size: Approx. 8" x 11" (21 cm x 28 cm) each page
Condition: Good
SEVERAL years ago the Triumph
factory dropped a bombshell on the
market by introducing the now very
popular 40 cubic in. vertical twin OHV
“Thunderbird”. Very few machines
have enjoyed such an immediate re-
sponse by the buying public. With
good territorial representation, the Tri-
umph Corporation has steadily moved
forward in the field, continuously of-
fering one of the most versatile lines
available today. Through constant and
progressive engineering this company
now offers a motorcycle for almost ev-
ery conceivable need. This ranging
from the potent 650 cc “Tiger 100”
and the new 500 cc “Trophy Scram-
bler”, to the extremely successful light-
weights in the form of the 150 cc “Ter-
rier” and the 200 cc “Tiger Cub”.
Certainly the wide variety of models
offered has been a positive factor in the
success this company has experienced,
both here and abroad.
650 cc “Tiger 110”
As previously mentioned, the main-
stem of the Triumph line in this country
has been the Triumph Thunderbird in-
corporating a 40 cubic in. OHV verti-
cal twin engine. However in 1953
there came a new addition to this mod-
el in the form of the Tiger 110. An
almost identical machine, but then em-
ploying the “new to Triumph” swing-
arm suspension. The response was im-
mediate and now with the announce-
ment of the 1955 models it is apparent
this form of power-packed sports equip-
ment is here to stay.
Attention to the braking system is
among the clearly visible contributions
in the form of screened air scoops on
the front 8" brake. This coupled with
a longer torque arm and strengthened
anchorage in the rear help the braking
power of this model.
A quick rundown of other desirable
features include a sturdy lower end en-
gine that with 8:1 pistons develops 43
hp with full muffler equipment; Tri-
umph swing-arm frame employing three
positions for adjustment; new two level
twinseat; forged “roll-up” center stand
and improved side stand; strengthened
kick starter mechanism made of chrome
nickel steel; stiffer front forks; magneto
ignition and dynamo lighting.
This model is finished in shell blue
green (on tank and fenders) with black
frame and instrument nacelle.
650 cc. “Thunderbird”
The standard Thunderbird also in-
corporates the Triumph 40 cubic in.
OHV engine. This model also comes
equipped with swing-arm suspension
and two level twinseat. Understandably
so, the Thunderbird is one of the most
popular in the Triumph line.
The new Thunderbird employs 7:1
pistons in primarily the same engine
as the “T 110” but with a horsepower
rating of 34 as compared to 43 hp of
the sports model. These ratings are all
computed with full muffler equipment
including air cleaners. The factory
points out that special racing parts are
available for both models.
Pertinent data on the Thunderbird in-
cludes an improved and simplified AC
lighting and ignition set; silent ramp
type camshaft; 1 1/ 16th in. Amal car-
buretor with air cleaner, toolbox, bat-
tery case and oil tank assembly; fold-
ing foot rests; high U.S. type handle-
bars and a 4’/2. gal. gas tank.
Many of the attachments seen on the
”T 110” are also found on the Thun-
derbird, such as the “roll on” center
stand and improved side stand.
This particular model is trimmed in
black with gold lines...
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