Mystery Bike...

[Sir Limpsalot]

As it's been rather quiet here on "Vintage" recently, partly due no doubt to the considerable and deserved interest in the new 1200R elsewhere, I thought I would throw this in to stimulate a bit of interest.
Quite a famous little bike this so probably not such a "mystery" to some...



You can see the way the designers mind was working with this and the later model that followed it.
Good luck,
Si

[Dallara]

Damn, Si...

I'm a bit off today, but I think that's an early BSA C-series... Mid to late '30's maybe?

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NAABSCD)

[Sir Limpsalot]

You're in the right neck of the woods, but need to be a bit further down the
A45 towards Coventry.
The designer did in fact have a brief spell at BSA, but will always be remembered for his association with one of the other great British marques.
That should give you something to work on...
My best,
Si.

[mnnden]

simon, Just a guess, but maybe an Ariel, looks a little like a early 50's Mark I
Den

[Sir Limpsalot]

It's not an Ariel although, now you mention it, I can see the resemblance. Hardly a surprise as the same chap designed both machines.
I should have mentioned that this model never actually made it into production but the later one that did was a huge seller. At least it was over here.
So what is 350cc in cubic inches then?:eusa_think:
Si.

[Sir Limpsalot]

It's a Triumph 3TU (U for "utility"). Edward Turner was convinced that cheap, reliable machines that could be ridden in ordinary outdoor clothing were the future.
the 3TU never made it into production but the idea stayed with turner and later he produced the 3TA.



Note the mudguarding. If it rained the rider(s) may have got wet but they were never sprayed by road filth from their own wheels.
Si