1973 Triumph TR5T

Description

Please Note: The seller is unable to provide a running video.

Additional photos of this Triumph TR5C are available here for your perusal.

Back in the 1950s and 60s, Triumph motorcycles represented the cream of the crop, favored by celebrities such as Evel Knievel, Steve McQueen, Bob Dylan, and even Elvis Presley. However, growing competition from Japanese imports quickly made the British bikes obsolete. Come 1970, quality control issues coupled with poor business management meant that Triumph was approaching bankruptcy.

In 1972, Triumph introduced the Trophy Trail 500 (TR5T) in a last-ditch effort to save some face. Billed as an all-around enduro machine, it mated the marque’s mighty T100 engine to a close-ration four-speed gearbox, a BSA B50-derived frame, as well as a dual seat and a set of passenger foot pegs. Taken together, such a combination made it excel at everything from dirt track to trials events.

In fact, Triumph USA was so confident in the bike that it put together an International Six Days Enduro (IDSE) team to compete against a field otherwise dominated by two-strokes. Despite the TR5T’s heavier platform and minimal suspension travel, riders Dave Mungenast, John Greenrose, and Ken Harvey each raced to a silver medal.

This example is Frame #: TR5TPH19571, Engine #: T100RH57466. The seller acquired it one year ago from Bruce Fickling in San Clemente, California.

The odometer shows 11,471 miles.

Maintenance:
The seller states that this Triumph underwent a full nut-and-bolt restoration. Per his report, it has no mechanical issues.

Modifications:
Rebuilt engine. The seller notes that it has seen approximately 300 miles since the teardown.

BSA B50 fuel tank.

Custom stainless steel exhaust.

Excel rims.

Battery tender.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on IRC Trials GP-1 tires with date codes of 1508 and 1315.

The sale includes one key.

Currently located in San Juan Capistrano (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Triumph is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any TR5T stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!