Triumph 350-500-650 Twins (1938-1962): books - history

Triumph Speed Twin & Thunderbird Bible - All 5T 498cc & 6T 649cc models 1938 to 1966 (2nd Edition)

The definitive history of Triumph's hugely popular Speed Twin and Thunderbird models. Much more than a simple history, this book is the ultimate single source of detailed information on these two classic Triumph twins - ideal for owners and would-be owners alike.

This 'Bible' contains a wealth of information, and covers the models' year-on-year development history from 1938-1966, engine and frame numbers, model type identification guide, colour schemes, complete technical specifications of every model, and details of international sporting achievements attained on these classic machines.
In addition, factory photographs show each model in authentic, original detail.

Features:
- Year-on-year model development history
- Lists engine and frame numbers
- Model type identification
- Colour schemes
- Technical specifications of every model
- International sporting achievements
- Factory photos showing authentic, original details
- From an author who spent 30 years at Triumph's Meriden factory.

Triumph Speed Twin et Thunderbird 1938-1966

Factory-original Triumph Twins (1938-1962) - Speed Twin, Tiger, Thunderbird & Bonneville Models

The members of this immortal family of motorcycles, whose creation was masterminded by the exceptionally talented Triumph boss Edward Turner in the late 1930s, are probably the most recognised and most sought after classic bikes in the world.
Powered by Turner's magnificent parallel-twin engine, and with their uniquely attractive styling, they were also capable of all the performance that the most demanding rider could ask for, and the 650 Tiger T110 in the 1950s could out-accelerate almost any- thing else on the road.

For most owners and potential buyers of these great machines the question of originality - highly likely to have been compromised during their long lives - is very important. The problem is, this information can be hard to find, but in this book long-time Triumph expert and author Steve Wilson provides the answers, backed up by detailed colour photography, specially commissioned for this book, of outstandingly original examples of the Speed Twin 1938-58, Tiger T100 1939-58, Thunderbird 1950-62, Tiger T110 1953-61, and T120 Bonneville 1959-62.

Mechanical components, frame, suspension, brakes, wheels, electrics, metalwork, instruments, badging, trim and colours and finishes are all covered, with some 300 photographs pinpointing correct original equipment and specification, and more than 50 illustrations reproduced from Triumph sales brochures going back to 1938.

Triumph Pre-Unit Twins

Triumph's pre-unit twin-cyclinder motorcycles were produced from 1938 to 1962, with engine sizes of 350cc, 500cc and 650cc. Ridden both on the road and in competition, the bikes formed the basis for Triumph's success through the 1940s to the 1960s.

With iconic names such as Speed Twin, Tiger 100, Trophy and Bonneville, the pre-unit Triumphs came as sports bikes and tourers. With their superb styling and reliable engines, they were a favourite both at home and abroad.

"Triumph Pre-Unit Twins" looks at the history and development of these bikes, and describes the various models that make up the range. It gives a detailed technical analysis of each model. Interviews with past and present owners give riding impressions of the bikes both today and back in the 1960s.

Triumph Thunderbird, Trophy & Tiger (1950-1983)

Benefit from the author's years of Triumph ownership, learn how to spot a bad bike quickly, and how to assess a promising bike like a professional. Get the right bike at the right price!