1959 Triumph Speed Twin 5TA 500cc

In 1959 Triumph's pre-unit 500cc engine made way for the new unit construction 5TA. The bore and stroke became 69x65.5mm making the new engine a short stroke. The brakes were full-width hubs and the frame was revised with a single top frame rail below the fuel tank. This alteration meant that the fuel tank acted as a stressed member. The most noticeable difference was the large, valanced front mudguard and totally enclosed 'Bathtub' rear panelling and, like all Triumphs that were designed by Edward Turner, they had tremendous style and smooth modern lines. This example has been in a private collection since 1996, owned by a capable engineer and used regularly up until 12 months ago. It has many sensible modifications such as the electronic ignition system and an Amal concentric carburetor and has completed many trips over to the Isle of Man. The bike is presented in its original colour of Amaranth Red that was only in use for 1959 before moving to Ruby Red. The engine and frame numbers match and it is complete with its UK V5 and lots of previous MOTs. This Triumph is a very usable classic that simply takes you back to the 50s/60s and sounds amazing!