A Look Back at a Legend: The History of Triumph Motorcycles
When you think about classic motorcycles from the golden days of riding, one of the names you probably think of is Triumph. They shared the stage with other iconic names to not only get the motorcycle industry off the ground, but they’ve also helped shape major aspects of the motorcycle community and culture. And, of course, they’re cool and fun to ride.
But a name like Triumph doesn’t get this kind of clout overnight. We’re looking back at the history of the company to show you why these bikes might just be the perfect choice for you. Then, stop by Boise Triumph to check out what we have available right now at our location in Meridian, Idaho, serving the cities of Boise and Nampa Falls.
Founding the Company
The early days of Triumph actually date back to the late 19th century, when Siegried Bettmann imported sewing machines and bicycles from his home country of Germany to his home at the time, Coventry. Then, in 1902, they released their first motorized bicycle. The bike was fitted with a Minerva engine that would start with just a little bit of pedalling.
They sold around 500 units in the first year alone, but it wasn’t until 1905 that the models were made entirely from Triumph parts. This included a 300cc engine with a top speed of 50 mph.
This initial design would undergo many changes until Triumph released what is considered the first “modern” motorcycle in 1915: the Triumph Model H. It was designed with a chain drive and 550cc four-stroke engine, with a three-speed gearbox. And everything changed from that point on.
Integrating Mass Production
The following decades would not only see changes among Triumph, but also major innovations in the general industrial workforce. Mass production wasn’t necessarily a new idea when it was implemented at Triumph in the early 1920s, but it was becoming more popular as various companies joined the war effort. And with mass production comes more affordable motorcycles, leading the Model P to become the least expensive motorcycles ever produced.
Triumph started selling bikes across the pond to American markets in 1938 and hit the race tracks in 1939 with the T100, which set a top speed of 118 mph. The T100 would also be commissioned for the British military after World War II began that same year.
In 1950, Triumph hit another major milestone for the industry when they released the Thunderbird, the first modern, mass-produced superbike. Finally, you could get an exceptional motorcycle at an affordable price.
Catapulting to Success
The ball didn’t stop rolling there because now we’re entering an iconic age of motorcycle riding, one that Triumph would very much be a major part of. Their bikes started making appearances in Hollywood movies and many Hollywood stars owned one of these bikes, including Marlon Brando and Elvis.
All through the 1950s and ‘60s, Triumph motorcycles were all over major entertainment outlets and helped popularize motorcycle riding among younger buyers. This would create an entire generation of enthusiasts who would pass their passion down to their own children.
At the same time, Triumph continued to push their image in the high-speed, racing community forward, to balance their muscle bikes with groundbreaking sportbikes...which admittedly created a bit of a stall in their innovation for their motorcycles overall. But new ideas were just around the corner.
Today’s Triumphs
1990 saw a spectacular return of innovative Triumph motorcycles with the Trident 750cc and 900cc Triples, and just like that they were off to the races again. To this day, Triumph is known as one of the best and most beloved motorcycle names in the industry, still well-respected for its performance innovations and cool styling.
The lineups of today include a much wider array of motorcycles than it did 100 years ago to fit a wider array riding preferences. Not to mention, they’re still looking to break all sorts of speed records, including currently attempting to break the land speed record, currently set at 274.2 mph.
Triumph has come a long way from the early days of the motorized pedal bike and it’s safe to say the industry wouldn’t be the same without this iconic manufacturer. That’s why you’ll want to stop by Boise Triumph to check out our selection of Triumph motorcycles for sale. We’ll help you find the perfect bike to ride home on, so if you’re from Meridian, Boise, or Nampa Falls, Idaho, visit us today!