Triumph motorcycles have a storied history on the racetrack, with a legacy built on speed, power, and precision. Over the years, these legendary machines have not only dominated the competition but also set the standard for what a true racing bike should be. In this article, we’ll explore 20 of Triumph’s most iconic motorcycles that left an indelible mark on the world of racing.
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Triumph Bonneville T120
The Triumph Bonneville T120, introduced in 1959, quickly became an icon of speed and handling. With its 650cc parallel-twin engine, the T120 was designed for performance, making it a favorite among racers in the 1960s. Its lightweight frame and responsive handling allowed it to excel in various racing formats, particularly in flat track and road racing. The T120’s legacy on the track is cemented by its numerous victories and the passion it ignited among motorcycle enthusiasts.
Triumph Daytona 675
Launched in 2006, the Triumph Daytona 675 marked the brand’s return to the forefront of competitive racing. With its 675cc inline three-cylinder engine, the Daytona 675 offered a perfect balance of power and agility, making it a dominant force in Supersport racing. Its success on the track was highlighted by multiple British Supersport Championship titles, as well as impressive performances in the World Supersport Championship. The Daytona 675’s advanced chassis and sharp handling made it a favorite among racers and track-day enthusiasts alike.
Triumph TR6 Trophy
The Triumph TR6 Trophy, introduced in 1956, became a legend both on and off the track, particularly in the world of off-road racing. Its 650cc engine delivered robust performance, and its rugged design made it a favorite for desert racing and scrambles. The TR6 Trophy gained further fame when it was ridden by Steve McQueen in the iconic motorcycle chase scene in the movie The Great Escape. Its versatility and competitive spirit made it a staple in off-road racing history.
Triumph Speed Twin
The Triumph Speed Twin, launched in 1938, revolutionized motorcycle design with its 500cc parallel-twin engine. This innovation not only set the standard for future motorcycles but also gave the Speed Twin a competitive edge on the racetrack. Its combination of power, lightweight design, and excellent handling made it a dominant force in racing during the late 1930s and beyond. The Speed Twin’s influence is still felt in motorcycle design today, underscoring its legendary status.
Triumph Tiger 100
The pre-war Triumph Tiger 100 was known for its agility and power, making it a formidable competitor in the racing world. Introduced in 1939, the Tiger 100 featured a 500cc parallel-twin engine and a lightweight frame, which allowed it to achieve remarkable speed and handling. It quickly became a favorite among racers, particularly in endurance events where its reliability and performance were unmatched. The Tiger 100’s success on the track solidified Triumph’s reputation as a leading motorcycle manufacturer.
Triumph Thruxton 900
Named after the famous Thruxton Circuit in England, the Triumph Thruxton 900 was designed with speed and performance in mind. This cafe racer-styled motorcycle, powered by an 865cc parallel-twin engine, captured the essence of the original 1960s Thruxton racers. With its aggressive riding position, improved suspension, and sharp handling, the Thruxton 900 became a popular choice for riders looking to experience the thrill of the track. Its classic design combined with modern engineering made it a standout in Triumph’s lineup.
Triumph T120R Bonneville
A racing version of the iconic Bonneville T120, the T120R was loved by racers for its reliability and performance. The T120R featured a tuned 650cc engine and modified chassis, making it more suitable for competitive racing. Its success in flat track and road racing throughout the 1960s and 1970s is a testament to its engineering excellence. The T120R’s blend of classic Bonneville styling and race-ready performance ensured its place in motorcycle racing history.
Triumph TR5 Trophy
The Triumph TR5 Trophy, introduced in 1949, was a versatile machine that excelled in both on-road and off-road racing. Powered by a 498cc parallel-twin engine, the TR5 Trophy was light, agile, and robust, making it a favorite among racers in events like the International Six Days Trial (ISDT). Its off-road prowess was unmatched, and its success in competitive racing earned it a reputation as one of Triumph’s most legendary models.
Triumph Tiger Cub
The Triumph Tiger Cub, launched in 1953, was a lightweight and versatile motorcycle that became a favorite in trials and scrambles. With its 199cc single-cylinder engine, the Tiger Cub offered excellent maneuverability and control, which were essential in off-road racing. The bike’s compact size and nimble handling made it particularly popular in the burgeoning sport of trials riding, where it consistently outperformed larger, more cumbersome motorcycles.
Triumph T140 Bonneville
The Triumph T140 Bonneville continued the legacy of the original Bonneville with updates that made it successful in 1970s racing. With its 750cc engine, the T140 offered increased power and torque, making it more competitive on the track. The T140’s improved suspension and braking system allowed it to handle the demands of modern racing, ensuring its place in the history of Triumph’s racing heritage.
Triumph Speed Triple 1050
The Triumph Speed Triple 1050, introduced in 2005, marked a modern revival of Triumph’s racing heritage. With its distinctive design, including the iconic twin headlamps, and a powerful 1050cc inline-three engine, the Speed Triple 1050 quickly became a track favorite. Its aggressive styling, sharp handling, and impressive performance made it a popular choice for both professional racers and track-day enthusiasts, helping to restore Triumph’s presence in competitive racing.
Triumph Daytona T595
The Triumph Daytona T595, launched in 1997, was a significant model that reestablished Triumph as a serious contender in the sportbike segment. With its 955cc inline-three engine, the T595 delivered a potent mix of power and torque, while its innovative chassis design provided exceptional handling. The Daytona T595’s success in racing and its impact on Triumph’s reputation in the sportbike world make it a legendary model in the brand’s history.
Triumph T110
The Triumph T110 is best known for setting a land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats, which ultimately inspired the creation of the Bonneville series. Introduced in 1953, the T110 featured a 650cc engine that was capable of reaching speeds previously unheard of in production motorcycles. Its performance on the track and in land speed racing cemented the T110’s status as a pioneer in the world of high-speed motorcycles.
Triumph X-75 Hurricane
The Triumph X-75 Hurricane, introduced in 1973, was a striking and unconventional motorcycle that became a favorite in flat track racing. Designed by Craig Vetter, the X-75 Hurricane featured a distinctive three-cylinder, 740cc engine and a unique design that set it apart from other motorcycles of its era. Its combination of style, power, and racing success made it a legend in the world of Triumph motorcycles.
Triumph 6T Thunderbird
The Triumph 6T Thunderbird gained fame for its endurance racing capabilities, notably setting a 500-mile speed record at an average of over 92 mph in 1951. With its 650cc engine and reliable design, the Thunderbird was not only a fast and powerful motorcycle but also one that could endure the rigors of long-distance racing. Its combination of speed, endurance, and success in competition made it one of Triumph’s most celebrated models.
Triumph T150 Trident
The Triumph T150 Trident dominated production racing in the late 1960s and early 1970s, thanks to its powerful 750cc triple-cylinder engine. The Trident’s innovative design, featuring a smooth power delivery and excellent handling, made it a formidable competitor on the track. Its success in events like the Isle of Man TT further solidified its reputation as one of Triumph’s most legendary racing machines.
Triumph 3TA Twenty One
The Triumph 3TA Twenty One, introduced in 1957, was a successful racer in the early 1960s, known for its unique styling and reliable performance. Powered by a 349cc twin-cylinder engine, the 3TA was lightweight and agile, making it well-suited for the rigors of competitive racing. Its distinctive “bathtub” styling set it apart from other motorcycles of its era, while its racing success earned it a place in Triumph’s storied history.
Triumph Sprint ST
The Triumph Sprint ST was a sport-tourer that excelled in endurance racing, thanks to its powerful 1050cc triple-cylinder engine and aerodynamic design. Introduced in 1998, the Sprint ST combined the comfort of a touring motorcycle with the performance of a sportbike, making it a versatile choice for long-distance racing. Its success in endurance events, along with its popularity among riders, cemented its place as a legendary Triumph model.
Triumph TT600
The Triumph TT600, launched in 2000, marked Triumph’s entry into competitive 600cc racing, a segment dominated by Japanese manufacturers. With its 599cc inline-four engine and advanced fuel injection system, the TT600 offered sharp handling and impressive performance. Although it faced stiff competition, the TT600 made a significant impact in the 600cc class, showcasing Triumph’s ability to compete at the highest levels of racing.
Triumph Tiger 800 XC
The Triumph Tiger 800 XC, introduced in 2010, is a modern adventure bike that proved its mettle in rallies and off-road events. Powered by a 799cc triple-cylinder engine, the Tiger 800 XC offered a perfect blend of power, agility, and ruggedness. Its long-travel suspension and off-road capabilities made it a popular choice for adventure racing, while its success in competitive events further solidified its status as a legendary Triumph model.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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