1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy

1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy

standard50sUnited Kingdom

Introduced in 1959, the 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy features a 649cc OHV twin engine producing 40hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV twin
Displacement
649 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
40 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque
48.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
71.0 × 82.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Amal carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel single cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
170 km/h (106 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
170 kg (375 lbs)
Wet Weight
183 kg (403 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1400 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

In 1959, Triumph launched the 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy — a standard motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from United Kingdom, it combined United Kingdom engineering with standard motorcycle appeal.

At the heart of the 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy sits a 649cc OHV twin engine producing 40 horsepower at 6500 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Amal carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Weighing 170 kg (375 lbs) dry, the 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy uses a steel single cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Known Issues

  • Oil leaks from primary chaincase
  • Lucas electrics (nicknamed Prince of Darkness)
  • Sludge trap cleaning essential
  • Amal carburettor wear and jetting issues
  • Period-correct fasteners and hardware hard to find

Fun Facts

  • The 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy was produced in Triumph's United Kingdom facilities
  • The 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy featured a steel single cradle frame typical of 1950s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
6/10

Resources & Parts