Triumph Thunderbird, Trophy & Tiger ― 650cc & 750cc Models: 1950-1983

There are many books about Triumph, but most of them concentrate on the glamorous twin-carburettor Bonneville and three-cylinder Trident. Alongside these headline grabbing bikes, Triumph built a whole series of single-carb machines that had all the style of their twin-carb cousins, but were not much slower, delivered better fuel consumption, and were easier to live with.

Unlike the many books about Triumph’s history, this one is a straightforward, practical guide to buying a Trophy or Tiger secondhand. In the Veloce Essential Buyer’s Guide format, it delves into what these bikes are like to live with, and the values, advantages, and disadvantages of different models. Plus, of course, what to look for when buying one – including engine, transmission, frame, brakes, suspension, paint, chrome, and more.

Peter Henshaw has had an enthusiasm for anything with wheels from an early age – from bicycles to 500hp tractors. He was the editor of Motorcycle Sport & Leisure for five years before going freelance, and now contributes to a whole range of transport magazines, including Motorcycle News, Twist & Go, A to B, and Tractor, as well as The Telegraph newspaper. He’s also written over 40 books, including 20 about bikes, and is an all-year-round motorcyclist who does not own a car.