Triumphrat

MisterMichigan · 05-09-2008

There is a local advertisement I've been watching for what is listed as a "1970 Triumph 250 Trophy."

The bike apparently does not run, but I'm really more looking for something to tinker with, so I'm not overly concerned. I am, however, somewhat clueless about the various Triumph models. The old reliable "wikipedia" does not show *any* 250 cc models. The ad in question lists it as a 250 cc single cylinder. Any ideas of what it might be, and what it might be worth in "non-running but most if not all pieces there" project condition?

Many thanks!

quagmire · 05-09-2008

In 68-70 Triumph made a 250cc single called the TR25W. Basically a BSA B25 Starfire with Triumph badges. I think some of the more knowledgeable people around here think pretty highly of them.

MisterMichigan · 05-09-2008

Thank you - I'm seriously tempted, but right now is not a great time for me to be looking. But...

NHOJ from Maine · 05-09-2008

some people love 'em...
but..
they cost about as much, if not more to restore, than the 500's or 650's..
and in the end you still have only a 250cc motorcycle.
swell around town, but a little stressed out at speed in modern traffic..
if the price was very low, i suppose i wouldn't turn it down, but if i wanted something that i could take on a real ride, over distance on modern roads, i would look towards the bigger models.

just my $.02 -john

GrandPaulZ · 05-09-2008

Yep, basically the only thing different on a restoration, price-wise, is the fact that there is only one piston, rings, cylinder & rod as compared to two for the twins. other than that, almost everything costs the same, maybe 10% less or a bit more if you are careful.

I've seen 250s selling for $250 for a basket case to $2,500 for complete runers, to $5,000 for total refurbs.

MisterMichigan · 05-09-2008

The guy started at a grand and is down to $750. Apparently it's been in a garage for 20+ years, so I'm sure every tube is dry rotted and the whole fuel system will need to be torn apart. Still might take a look, but it sounds like it might be a little pricey for what it is.

GrandPaulZ · 05-10-2008

In the case of complete rollers, reputed to be former runners when put away, the typical scenario sees one spending a grand to get them roadworthy IF THEY ARE NOT COMPROMISED INTERNALLY.

In this case, you might get away with $750 or so.

$750 + $750 = $1,500 for a decent runner; not too bad.

Total refurb / restoration is a different story.

hobbit · 05-10-2008

I ran a starfire before getting the tiger - lovely little bike, but not great for 70mph cruising and lights were improved by the addition of a zippo on the handlebars. :-) Used to commute upto 50 miles a day without too many problems though - When they're good . . .

abmar · 05-10-2008

I never owned one but I knew of people who did. They had a bad reputation when new for being unreliable and underpowered compared to contemporary Japanese machines. They wouldn't stand high revs and basically self-destructed at anything close to highway speeds.

Bruce Martin