New to me 74 Trident

[hickslawns]

Hello to all. Glad to have found this site. I just brought home my 1974 Trident T150. Just going over it tonight and here is what I have found. It needs to be torn apart and given a good detail job. The seat is not a factory seat. It says Triumph on the bottom, but it isn't the factory seat. The pipes are decent, but rattle around. I think it is the baffles. Probably needs new mufflers. Front tire is dry rotted. Otherwise, it seems to be pretty solid. I was told the top end has been done, but it does also leak a little around one of the cylinder base gaskets. The guy I got it from put 14 miles on it in the years he owned it. I think he said 5-10 years of ownership. Bum leg, and unsure of himself, he faced up to the fact he couldn't kick it anymore and should let it go. Does anyone have advice on the cylinder base gasket? I am just going to change the oil, and ride it in hopes that it will seal itself. After all, it really hasn't been ridden and probably dried up. As far as value, any ideas? Also, will replacement of the seat with a factory original seat help the bikes value? Other than the seat it appears to be totally stock. Thanks, Phil

[daveforty]

I am ever so slightly envious. I had a T150 for a while, but it never worked and after sitting in the garage for years leaking oil I sold it. Bad move on my part, but I suspect it would have become a money pit.

This is the forum for 'Hinckley' Tridents, I suggest you look in the 'Classics & Cruisers' section, there is a forum specifically for Meriden bikes. You will find a great level of experience & expertise & willingness to help in there. And post a picture. Or three.

[GeoffE]

Hi Phil,

As well as the section suggested by Dave - "Classic, Vintage & Veteran", there is also a forum that specializes in the original triples [Triumph Trident (T150, T160, X75) and the BSA Rocket 3 (A75)]. The forum is called Triples Online (www.triplesonline.com), and I can recommend this site for your model.

Best regards
Geoff