1954 Triumph T110 Tiger

Lot details
Registration No: 788 XUA
Frame No: 49443
Engine No: T110-49443
cc: 650
MOT Expiry Date: None

The Tiger 110 was first seen by the public at the end of 1953, when an example of the new model was displayed at the Paris Show. The engine was clearly derived from the unit used by the Thunderbird, sharing the same dimensions of 71mm x 82mm giving a capacity of 649cc, however the compression ratio had been increased from the 6T's 7 : 1 to 8 : 1 for the T110, which, together with more aggressive cams, revised ports and a larger carburettor resulted in a claimed power output of 42 bhp in comparison to the 34bhp delivered by the 6T. The engine and gearbox were housed in a completely new chassis which introduced swinging arm rear suspension to the Triumph range. The single down tube frame was fitted with a pivoted fork controlled by Girling units at the rear and Triumph telescopic forks at the front. The centre section of the frame was filled by a combined oil tank, toolbox and air cleaner assembly that, combined with the headlamp nacelle, rear mudguard valance, stepped dualseat and tank design, to create a machine of exceptional attractiveness. Examples tested by the press were found to be capable of speeds in excess of 110mph combined with excellent flexibility and good fuel consumption. The new frame and dualseat proved to be comfortable in use and the braking, aided by a new 8 inch unit at the front, was found to be good. The Motorcycle headed their test of an example with the following summary an "Impressive O.H.V. twin combining light steering and powerful braking with a performance to delight the sporting rider" and concluded the test in the following manner "the Tiger 110 is extremely smart in appearance. Possessing a performance which suggests the analogy of an iron hand in a velvet glove , it is one of the most impressive Triumphs yet produced".

The example offered, which dates from the models first year of production was imported from the United States during 2006. Finished in the attractive shell blue livery that characterises the early T110s, it is described as being in good condition both mechanically and cosmetically following restoration. Displaying matching numbers it is offered with a Swansea V5C, all duties having been paid on import.