Triumph Motorcycles

Today in Motorcycle History

Triumph Motorcycles 1908-1909

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Triumph 1909 TT Model

The 1909 Tourist Trophy Triumph. A similar model was used by Capt. Sir R. K. Arbuthnot, Bart., R.N., and J. Marshall in the recent Isle of Man Race.

Triumph Improvements.

Many important detail improvements have been made in the 1909 Triumph model, especially in the engine, by which more power is obtained and longer and more uniform wear of the cylinder is ensured. A slightly lower frame has been introduced, with other important improvements, which will appeal to and be appreciated by motor cyclists. No pedalling gear or carrier is being fitted to the T.T. models, and, in addition, the machine itself is lighter than the ordinary touring model, and is fitted with Dunlop wired-on tyres and racing handle-bars. The specification is the same as the ordinary touring model with the exceptions above mentioned, and that the engine has specially selected parts and a slightly higher compression.

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Triumph 1909 Petrol Tank

Triumph petrol and lubricating oil tank. Note the generator bracket, also the petrol injector, which is "on" in the position shown, and "off" when pointing rearwards.

Among the chief improvements which have been made in the touring model are: A registered design of piston and a slightly lower frame; a new pattern Brooks saddle, which gives the rider a still lower position; a new pattern front hub made absolutely waterproof; stronger cranks and stronger handle-bar; an improved lamp bracket and improved oil and petrol cans; increased power in the foot brake; stronger back springs to the front forks; heavier spokes in the back wheel; an improved tank with a special tap to inject petrol through the compression tap (patent applied for); and a generator clip fixed to the tank in a convenient position.

The Motor Cycle, November 18th, 1908. Page 898

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Triumph for 1909

The 3½ h.p. 1909 pattern touring Triumph. In outward appearance it is much the same as this year's model, the chief improvements being in the engine.

Triumph Cycle Co., Ltd. Coventry

Stand No. 121.

One has become quite accustomed to look upon the Triumph motor bicycle as the standard machine of its class, and certainly no better designed or finished machine is to be found on the market, nor one which has proved its quality more successfully in competition. In general design it. remains practically the same as last year, but every point has been well considered, and where improvement has been possible, it has been introduced. The ball bearings are retained in the engine, but a new piston is employed having a ring at each end so as to distribute the wear evenly along the cylinder. The rear spring of the front fork has been strengthened, and caps are fitted to exclude wet from the front hub. The frame is slightly lower, and the tank has been strengthened. The carburetter remains the same, with its air and throttle controls from the handle bar, a device which this firm has done much to popularise. The mudguard flap is now fixed in front of the magneto instead of being attached to the end of the steel guard. Brooks' B 200 saddle, with padded top, is fitted as the standard pattern. A neat little fitting consists of a tap in the tank with a long spout, which can be turned over the compression tap, thus admitting petrol to the cylinder before starting the engine. The front rim brake has been improved, and rubber-studded tyres are fitted to most of the machines on the stand.

Two patterns only are exhibited, one, the ordinary roadster machine, and the other, the tourist trophy pattern, which differs from the first in having no pedalling gear. It is somewhat lighter, has a shorter frame, and a higher compression engine. On both models a clip is fixed. to the left side of the tank to carry the generator of an acetylene lamp. It is rather like gilding refined gold to praise the Triumph motor-cycles, but we feel that any commendation that we could make would not be too high.

Stanley Show 1908

The Motor Cycle