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The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T and 1965 Triumph T100SS represent two chapters in Triumph's storied history.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T from United Kingdom was powered by a 649cc OHV twin producing 34hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 180.0kg (397 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1965 Triumph T100SS by contrast offered 490cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 160.0kg (353 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T from United Kingdom was powered by a 649cc OHV twin producing 34hp at 6000rpm. Weighing 180.0kg (397 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1965 Triumph T100SS by contrast offered 490cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 160.0kg (353 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
Specifications Comparison
| 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T | 1965 Triumph T100SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 649 cc | 490 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 34 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 38.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 158 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 180.0 kg | 160.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 193.0 kg | 173.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Triumph machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T laid the groundwork with 34hp, while the later 1965 Triumph T100SS pushed output to 34hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Triumph collection.
About the 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T
The 1949 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T is a 649cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Triumph's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.
Full 1949 Triumph Thunderbird 6T Profile →About the 1965 Triumph T100SS
The 1965 1965 Triumph T100SS packs a 490cc OHV twin engine with 34hp into a standard motorcycle package from Triumph.
Full 1965 Triumph T100SS Profile →