The History of Triumph Motorcycles and the Evolution of the Modern Classic Range

Triumph Motorcycles - The Birth of a British Icon

Triumph Motorcycles, one of the most iconic names in motorcycling, was founded in 1902 by Siegfried Bettmann and Mauritz Schulte. Initially established as a bicycle manufacturing company in Coventry, England, Triumph quickly shifted focus to motorcycles. Their first model, known simply as the “No. 1,” featured a 2.25-horsepower Minerva engine fitted into a bicycle frame, setting the foundation for over a century of innovation and excellence.

The early 20th century saw Triumph gaining prominence, particularly during World War I, when the company supplied over 30,000 motorcycles, primarily the Model H Roadster, to British and Allied forces. The Model H, often referred to as the “Trusty Triumph,” was among the first motorcycles with a gearbox and clutch, cementing Triumph’s reputation for reliability and engineering prowess.

Golden Years: Post-War Dominance

After World War II, Triumph entered what many consider its golden era. Under the leadership of Edward Turner, one of motorcycling’s most influential designers, Triumph launched several groundbreaking models. The 1937 Speed Twin, featuring a parallel-twin engine, became the blueprint for the company’s success in the decades to come. This engine configuration was lightweight, powerful, and smooth, making Triumph motorcycles immensely popular.

During the 1950s and 1960s, Triumph became synonymous with speed, style, and British craftsmanship. Iconic models such as the Bonneville, first introduced in 1959, became a cultural phenomenon. Named after the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, where land-speed records were set, the Bonneville combined sleek design with a high-performance 650cc twin-engine. It became the motorcycle of choice for celebrities like Steve McQueen, Marlon Brando, and Bob Dylan, solidifying its status as a symbol of rebellion and freedom.

Triumph motorcycles also excelled in motorsports during this period. Triumphs were a frequent choice in the Isle of Man TT races, and the brand achieved global recognition for its performance and reliability. Triumph’s export success, particularly in the United States, helped establish the company as a dominant force in the motorcycle industry.

Challenges and Decline

Despite its success, Triumph faced significant challenges in the 1970s. The rise of Japanese manufacturers like Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki introduced motorcycles that were more affordable, reliable, and technologically advanced. Triumph struggled to compete, and a series of financial difficulties led to the company’s bankruptcy in 1983.

A new era: The birth of Triumph Motorcycles Ltd

Triumph’s revival began in 1984 when British entrepreneur John Bloor acquired the rights to the brand. Under Bloor’s leadership, Triumph Motorcycles Ltd. was established with a modern factory in Hinckley, England. The company adopted a forward-looking approach, focusing on cutting-edge technology and quality manufacturing while respecting Triumph’s heritage.

Triumph re-entered the market in the early 1990s with a range of modern motorcycles, such as the Trophy and Trident, which prioritised performance and innovation. This marked the beginning of a new era for Triumph, characterized by a balance between modern engineering and classic design.

The evolution of the modern classic range

Reimagining the Classics

By the early 2000s, Triumph recognized the growing demand for motorcycles that combined the nostalgia of vintage designs with modern performance and reliability. In 2001, the company reintroduced the Bonneville, a modern interpretation of its iconic 1959 predecessor. Featuring a 790cc parallel-twin engine and classic styling cues like peashooter exhausts and a teardrop fuel tank, the Bonneville became an instant hit among enthusiasts seeking a retro aesthetic without sacrificing contemporary performance.

The Bonneville Family Expands

The success of the new Bonneville paved the way for an entire family of modern retro motorcycles. Triumph expanded the range to include models catering to diverse riding styles and preferences:

• Thruxton: Introduced as a cafe racer-inspired model, the Thruxton featured a more aggressive riding position, upgraded suspension, and a nod to the cafe racer culture of the 1960s.
• Scrambler: With high-mounted exhausts, spoked wheels, and rugged styling, the Scrambler paid homage to off-road Triumphs of the past while offering modern versatility.
• Street Twin: Launched in 2016, the Street Twin offered a more accessible entry point to the modern retro range with a smaller engine and approachable price point.
• Bobber: Launched in 2016, the Bobber aimed to capture the growing demand for factory-built custom bikes, blending authentic style with reliability and performance, while appealing to enthusiasts of vintage motorcycles and modern café racer culture.
• T100 & T120 Liquid Cooled: The earlier air-cooled Bonneville models were updated in 2016 to feature liquid cooling The Bonneville T100, powered by a 900cc parallel-twin engine, and the T120, with a 1200cc engine, now featured liquid cooling to meet stricter Euro 4 emissions regulations while improving performance and efficiency.

Engineering Innovation

While the modern retro range drew heavily from Triumph’s heritage, the motorcycles featured cutting-edge engineering. Triumph integrated modern technologies such as fuel injection, liquid cooling, ABS, ride-by-wire throttle, and customisable riding modes, ensuring reliability and performance on par with modern standards. This blend of old and new appealed to riders who admired vintage aesthetics but sought the convenience and safety of modern engineering.

The Shift to Premium Design

In recent years, Triumph has elevated its modern retro range with premium finishes and features. Models like the Bonneville T120 and Thruxton RS boast high-performance components, such as Brembo brakes and Öhlins suspension, while retaining their timeless visual appeal. Triumph has also embraced customization, offering an extensive range of official accessories to help riders personalize their bikes.

Cultural Impact of the Modern Retro Range

Triumph’s modern retro motorcycles have played a significant role in reviving interest in vintage-style bikes. They cater to a broad demographic, from older riders nostalgic for the classics to younger enthusiasts drawn to the retro lifestyle. The range has also cemented Triumph’s reputation as a brand that honours its heritage while adapting to the needs of modern motorcyclists.

In addition to individual riders, Triumph’s modern retro motorcycles have become a favourite among custom builders and influencers, the predominant reason 52 Speedshop Ltd was born. Their simple yet versatile designs serve as a canvas for bespoke creations, further enhancing their appeal.

As Triumph continues to innovate, the modern retro range remains central to its identity. The company’s ability to seamlessly blend heritage and innovation ensures its ongoing success. For enthusiasts who appreciate both the legacy of classic motorcycles and the reliability of modern engineering, Triumph’s modern retro range represents the best of both worlds. It’s a tribute to the past, a celebration of the present, and a promise for the future.