1966 Triumph 649cc TR6C Trophy

1966 Triumph 649cc TR6C Trophy
Registration no. not UK registered
Frame no. TR6CDU41364
Engine no. TR6CDU41364
Triumph's immense success in two uniquely American forms of racing – TT Steeplechase and long-distance desert events – prompted Meriden to produce a pair of unique motorcycles, just for the American market, as requested by Johnson Motors of Pasadena, California: the Bonneville TT Special and TR6C Trophy Special. Approximately 18,285 TR6s of all types were built between August 1965 and July 1966; just how many were TR6Cs is not known. The 1966 bikes are instantly recognisable by their single Amal Monobloc carburettor with pancake filter, and 2.3-gallon fuel tank with new-for-'66 'eyebrow' chrome Triumph badges.

'DU41364' left the factory on 14th July 1966 bound for TriCor, the East Coast distributor in Maryland. Finished in correct Pacific Blue and White, this matching-numbers TR6C Trophy has been restored to original specification but with the addition of VDO enduro-type speedometer. It was restored by the highly qualified previous owner, being painstakingly refurbished over a period of 18 months: new bearings and bushings throughout, blueprinted motor and transmission, new chrome, new cadmium, and new paint. It had been started and run once, with less than a half a mile under its wheels, before being offered for sale at Bonhams' Las Vegas auction in January 2015 (Lot 130) where it was purchased by the current vendor. Offered with paperwork relating to its purchase, this TR6C Trophy is a work of art.