OVERVIEW
1950 Triumph Trophy TR5
VIN: 9256 N
Engine: TR5 9256N
Gearbox: 9302
This Trophy was completed at the Meridan factory on May 24th 1950. An original square barrel bike, it was fitted with the optional Sprung Hub from the factory. As with most of the TR5s it was destine for sale in the US. The world’s first true “duel-purpose” bike it was hugely popular for trail riding thanks to its high ground clearance and exceptionally good steering characteristics for the day.
Now fully restored, the TR5’s engine and transmission were rebuilt by the legendary AJ Lewis. This “square barrel” motor was a specialty of AJ’s as this was the same motor used in the “Grand Prix” models.
About the TR5 Trophy
The TR5 Trophy was a standard motorcycle made by Triumph Engineering at the Meriden factory between 1949 and 1958.
Based on the Speed Twin, the TR5 was a trials machine designed for off-road use with a high level two into one exhaust and good handling on public roads. The name 'Trophy' came from the three 'specials' that Triumph built for the Italian International Six Day Trial in 1948, which went on to win three gold medals and the manufacturers team trophy. Featuring prominently in the AMC "Class C" racing until 1969, the American export models included components from the Tiger 100 to create a motorcycle for desert competition.
A brief history of AJ Lewis:
Following World War II AJ Lewis went to work for the famed British motorcycle importer and shop, Johnson Motors in Pasadena CA. JoMo, as they were called, was the largest Triumph and Ariel dealer and distributor on the West Coast. While in their employ AJ became an expert at building race motors that included both motorcycles and Indy cars. His passion was for the Ariel and Triumph brands, and he owned and tuned 2 Grand Prix racers with one placing 3rd at Daytona in 1951. He later had two shops of his own with one specializing in speed parts and performance engine builds. Later in life he would restore the bikes of his youth as only a lifetime of experience and expertise could, winning multiple awards in the process. AJ amassed the largest supply of Ariel Motorcycles and parts in the world, which allowed him to restore bikes using original factory parts.
