1959 Triumph 349cc 3TA

1959 Triumph 349cc 3TA
Registration no. 4720 UA
Frame no. H9164
Engine no. 3TA H5708
Triumph re-entered the 350 class in 1957 with the introduction of the Twenty One. Its arrival ushered in Triumph's unitary construction era, which saw the engine and gearbox, previously separate components, combined within a single structure, albeit one that retained a vertically split crankcase assembly. Readily distinguishable by its Shell Blue metallic finish and 'bathtub' rear enclosure - a feature later applied to Triumph's larger models - the newcomer was renamed '3TA' in September 1958. With just 18.5bhp on tap, Triumph's smallest twin lacked the urgent acceleration of its larger brethren, but nevertheless was a capable tourer good for around 80mph while delivering excellent fuel economy. 'One of the swiftest standard British-made 350cc roadsters tested by Motor Cycling, the Triumph Twenty One combines an untiring zest for high-speed cruising with safe handling and a remarkably economical fuel consumption,' reported the 'Green 'Un'.

The 3TA offered here has been fitted with a replacement engine, albeit one made in the same year, 1959, and is presented in 'oily rag' condition. The current vendor acquired the Triumph in August 2012. Accompanying documentation consists of an expired MoT (June 2013) and a V5C Registration Certificate.