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You might not know it at first, but this custom old school aviation-style motorcycle is a 1956 Triumph Thunderbird. But the work to transform this bike from its factory look to something gorgeous and unique wasn’t done until the current owner purchased it back in the late 90s.
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That curvaceous body you see is aluminum that’s been hand-rolled, including the Le Mans-style fuel tank and front-wheel fairing. Other throwback details furthering the aesthetic include a café-style seat, aluminum rear cowl, and taillights with beehive lenses.
Plus, you’ll note on the front-wheel fairing are graphics imitating what was found on bombers during WWII.
The whole motorcycle rolls on 19-inch allow spoke wheels. Feeding power to the rear wheel is a 649cc parallel twin drawing air through dual Amal Monoblock carbs with polished velocity stacks, another striking visual detail.
For extra dramatic and sonic effect, the dual exhaust system is chrome-plated and features backswept pipes mounted low, plus Brooklands-style mufflers to give the bike a sense of motion, even as it sits still.
There’s a four-speed transmission working with a chain drive to turn the rear wheel.
Adding to the fun of this unique build is a Rocketeer-style helmet that’s intended only for show, not to be used while riding. We don’t know how many people would dare ride this work of art, especially in traffic, anyway. Most likely it will sit proudly displayed in the owner’s collection, possibly even inside as a piece of art.
If you think that’s tragic, this custom 1956 Triumph Thunderbird is currently being auctioned online, so you can try snagging it and doing what you think is best.
Check out the lot listing for this motorcycle here.
Images via Bring A Trailer
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