Triumphrat

jakes10mm

I'm looking for advise on a restoration project to complete with my sons. They are both young, but showing some interest in mechanical systems. I've been looking at various Triumphs and BSA's. The most plentiful seem to be 1968-1972 models. I have currently found a 71 Thunderbolt, 68 Lightning, 1972 Tiger, and 1982 Bonnie. Any recommendations pro/con any of these? My gut is leading me towards the Tiger for two reasons: I'm currently riding an 06 Tiger and it's in running condition and "needs" restoring. The others range from complete non-running bikes with "most parts" to a total basket case. Any and all suggestion would be appreciated.

mtds

If the '72 Tiger is running and stock, that would seem to me to be the best bet. At least you would have some idea that you had a collection of parts that fit together.

If the Tiger was not mostly stock, one of the non-running but near-complete bikes might be a good choice; again you'd know what you were buying.

I'd avoid a disassembled motorcycle unless I was an expert on that model.

There is an excellent new book out called Building Budget Brits, ISBN 978-1-884313-62-2. It has chapters on choosing and buying a BSA or Triumph from the 60's and 70's, sourcing parts, and practical information on refurbishing.

GrandPaulZ

I vote for starting with the most complete and original "donor" bike possible. mismatched parts and fasteners ALWAYS cost more to sort out.

__________________
GrandPaulZ
Author of "Old Bikes"
Born Again Bikes
My Photo album

jakes10mm

Thanks for the feedback. Still looking around and found another option...a fairly local guy has several Tridents in various levels of "Completeness". He's asking a fair price for the whole lot of 3 bikes plus all his spare parts, gaskets, etc. It's a very tempting deal.

My son and I are heading to the local Triumph shop after work/school today to look at his vintage offerings. If nothing pans out there, I may hook up the trailer and go take a serious look at the Trident package deal. Hopefully, the spare parts could finance the rebuilding of one or two of the bikes.

epynt1050

I am with GPZ in going with completeness and originality. However, I would stay clear of the Tridents as the are much more complex machines than the twins and need more knowledge, special tools etc Parts tend to be more expensive and less easy to find.
Of the four twins you mention, I would tend towards the 68 Lightning or the 82 Bonneville. The 68 Lightning as it was built during the "peak" period of the range and is generally considered to have the classic look (the 68/69/70 Bonnevilles are similarly well regarded) whilst the 82 Bonneville has 10 years further development without some of the problems that the early OIF (oil in frame) machines encountered during 71-73. All 4 however, should be easy restorations with good spare as and plenty of know how readily available. Is the 72 Tiger the only runner? If so, go for it but definitely avoid the basket case.

GrandPaulZ

TRIPLE TRIDENT TRIPLES!!!

One each! What's to consider? Hitch up the Trailer.

Either finish and paint them all the same, paint them 3 different colors, build them three different styles (standard, cafe racer, bobber, military replica, etc). Whatever.

Tons of options, fun for everybody.

I'll trade your extra stuff for some new parts to complete the projects.

__________________
GrandPaulZ
Author of "Old Bikes"
Born Again Bikes
My Photo album

jakes10mm

Sort of my feelings, but I got a big Red "X" from the Mrs. when I mentioned the "option".

Having reservations about the 68 BSA as we visited it last night and determined its true condition. Missing headlight, grips and hand controls, rear brake linkage, carbs and air cleaners, ignition system, gauges, seat, and various small parts. The engine is also seized; it was a barn find. May have to look elsewhere.