Description
6-23 Update: The seller has let us know that he’s willing to throw in a paint-matched Handy motorcycle lift if bidding surpasses $7,666 plus the buyer’s fee. Additional photos are available in the album linked below, shipping would have to be arranged separately.
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
When Triumph debuted the T595 in 1997, the model laid the groundwork for one of the British marque’s most iconic motorcycles: the Daytona. What’s more, the bike allowed the Triumph to find a niche — the inline triple — after its rebirth at the Cologne Motor Show in 1990.
After some lack-lust reviews, however, Triumph decided it was time to go back to the drawing board. Accordingly, they revised the platform to make it lighter, more powerful, and quicker handling. What resulted was the second generation 955i.
As the name suggested, the 955i was built around a 955cc three-cylinder engine. Co-developed by Lotus, the block featured a 12-valve DOHC configuration, forged aluminum pistons, CNC-machined heads, and liquid cooling. When paired to a six-speed close-ratio gearbox, it was good for 128hp and 60lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel — enough grunt to spirit riders to a top speed of 161mph.
Around the engine, Triumph wrapped twin-spar aluminum frame and a single-sided swingarm for predictable flex and rigidity. To keep the platform planted, it boasted a set of 43mm forks up front and a rear monoshock with adjustable preload and rebound damping. Stopping power came from Nissin in the form of a a pair 320mm discs brakes mated to 4-piston calipers. As Cycle World put in its period review: “the Daytona’s revisions add up to a machine that meets the criteria that Triumph had in mind for its flagship sportbike: a more powerful, agile and comfortable Daytona that retains the original’s unique character. This is one alternative sportbike that doesn’t force you to compromise performance for that character.”
To celebrate its 100th Anniversary, Triumph released a special Centennial Edition in 2002. Performance specs were the same as the standard model, but all bikes got carbon fiber filler panels and a commemorative centennial badge. They also got a single sided swing arm like earlier models of the 955i.
In 2003, Lockhart-Phillips took a stock Triumph Daytona 955i and turned it into a sleeper custom with the help of Turbo Connection. In contrast to typical turbocharger setups, the bike featured an ‘aerocharger’ with variable vanes rather than a traditional waste gate system. On the road, this meant that boost was available from as early as 2,500rpm, and riders could toggle a two-position switch to adjust the amount: 6.5psi or 8psi. The 955i being offered today sports the same setup, so if you’d like to read more about how it works, check out this article on Cycle World.
Manufactured in January of 2002, this example is VIN: SMT502FT82J154425. The seller purchased this motorcycle new in 2002 from Orange County Triumph. He notes that “This triumph has been serviced/modified by Mickey Cohen from the date of purchase and this week was completely serviced and checked ready for the next customer to enjoy the TURBO rush. Original Caspian Blue paint, never been down. After the minimum 2,500 miles engine break in period Mickey arranged Turbo installation with subject matter expert Brian Olsen of Turbo Connection.”
The odometer shows 7,224 miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller:
“In preparation for the listing, Mickey Cohen Motor Sports completed the following comprehensive service:
• R/R: Oil and Filter
• R/R: Coolant replenished with Engine Ice Coolant
• Brake fluid flush
• R/R: Front/Rear Tire
• R/R: Battery
• R/R: Voltage Regulator
• R/R: Fuel Pump
• R/R: All 3 Fuel Injectors
• Detail: Removal of all bodywork to complete comprehensive cleaning”
Modifications:
Triumph turbo kit; AirResearch Variable Vane Turbocharger; Selectable Boost Control: 6.5 (Premium) / 8.5 psi (only w Race Fuel); intercooler.
Ceramic coated exhaust system.
Attack Racing rear sets (set to GP shift).
Attack Racing 4-point shock linkage.
Road Racing aluminum front and rear fenders.
Dark double bubble windscreen.
Aftermarket front and rear turn signals.
Not pictured is an Uni air filter.
It is riding on Dunlop Sportmax Q3+ tires with date codes of 4921 and 1522.
Extras:
The sale also includes the original tool kit, Triumph cover, rear stand, passenger seat, factory technical/service manual, and owner’s manual, as well as an assortment of spares.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California, this Triumph is offered on a clean California title with current registration through September 2023.
Have any Daytona 955i stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
6-23 Update: The seller has let us know that he’s willing to throw in a paint-matched Handy motorcycle lift if bidding surpasses $7,666 plus the buyer’s fee. Additional photos are available in the album linked below, shipping would have to be arranged separately.