So I got a Speed Triple for free...

[dys]

Hello all! First post...

I've assumed ownership of a Triumph but it's in pieces and all not there. Decoding the VIN reveals that it is indeed a 1996 Speed Triple. By the dirt in/on some of the pieces, I would think it was wrecked. But I didn't see any scratches or damage to the frame or engine covers, although the front wheel has "bent" written on it in chalk.

Take a look for yourselves...







I'm not sure if it is worth rebuilding or should just be parted out to finance some other heap. Either way I would like a running bike, and the supplier of the heap would like a riding partner.

Where do I begin?

What is missing?

Who/where are some good resources for used parts, and other essential supppliers? I know nothing of the Triumph, or for that matter, motorcycle world.

I have a few hundred to spare immediately if there are any ebay/cragislist type of deals I should jump on right away. Ultimately I would just like to see it run and serve as a weekend toy/occasional summertime commuter. It by no means has to be perfect, e.g. I'll happily accept a dented tank for a fair price.

Help!!

[Sydtrip]

Welcome to the forum DYS.

It's a bit hard to tell at this point just how good a score your Speed Triple is. You really need to start putting it together to find out how much is missing and what needs replacing. I couldn't see a pair of forks or a cylinder head in there for starters. Parts for these can be hard to find and expensive depending on where you are but a healthy Speedy is a great looking bike and rewarding to own and ride.

There are plenty of guys here to help with what you might need. Good luck with it.

[DEcosse]

Originally Posted by dys

....Who/where are some good resources for used parts, and other essential supppliers? I know nothing of the Triumph, or for that matter, motorcycle world....

First off - where are you?
Assume US somewhere since mention CraigsList

[Roden]

I agree with Syd, it would rely on having all parts available, they can be a little hard to find at times, depending on which country you are in.

If you go down the rebuild path, I would be concerned as to why the motor is open and how long has it been laying around like that. The bent front end could be easily replaced with parts from other models such as Suzuki and Kawasaki if genuine bits are not available. At the end of the day, a well sorted Speed Triple is a gem of a bike and one that a lot of people cherish and will never part with! Be aware though, it won't be a quick build, there is alot of work there and some serious dollars to spend. Most of the expense could well be with the mill.

If it all looks a bit too daunting, I don't think anyone here would be critical of you parting it out and funding a running bike. Those parts would be snapped up pretty quickly and you would make some good dollars.

Let us know which way you go, you will get all the help you need here!

Cheers,

Roden

[dys]

I'm in NY.

[dys]

Some more pics...

Engine cylinders:

[dys]

engine:

[dys]

random bits:

[dys]

frame & harness:

[dys]

more frame: