Engine # 72700 (stamped on engine)
Frame # 312891 (at base of rear tube)
Few motorcycles carry the historical weight of the Triumph Model H, affectionately known as “The Trusty Triumph”. Built from 1915 through the early 1920s, it gained enduring fame during World War I as the motorcycle of choice for dispatch riders, with nearly 30,000 supplied to the Allied forces. Its reputation for ruggedness and dependability made it equally popular in civilian form after the war, ensuring Triumph’s place as a leading British manufacturer.
This particular machine, manufactured in 1922, was acquired in 1980 after the current owner’s father, who first encountered it for sale nearly two decades earlier, was offered the bike from a friend. Remarkably, it remains in largely original, unrestored condition, a rare quality that underscores its authenticity.
The Model H is powered by a 550cc air-cooled, side-valve single-cylinder engine paired with a hand-change three-speed gearbox. Its top speed is about 45 miles per hour, although a more comfortable cruising pace is between 35 and 40. The braking system reflects its early design, with a pushbike-style mechanism on the front wheel and a rim brake on the rear, both of which provide only modest stopping power. The controls are similarly characteristic of the era: an air slide throttle, a valve lifter to ease compression when starting, a hand-operated clutch, and a magneto with manual advance and retard. Lighting is provided by an acetylene system, featuring both a headlamp and a tail lamp, and the frame incorporates fittings for a sidecar.
This motorcycle has not been on the road for many years and is currently not rideable, although a replacement drive belt is available to aid in returning it to running order. Many of its original fittings survived, including the acetylene lamps and license holder, though some non-standard features, such as steel pannier boxes, would originally have been leather.
As an unrestored survivor, this 1922 Triumph Model H is significant both mechanically and historically. It embodies the qualities that made the model a wartime icon and a postwar favorite, and its originality makes it an exceptional piece for preservation or sympathetic restoration.
MILEAGE: No odometer, mileage unknown.
PAINT: The paint is largely original and consequently shows its age. It is possible the petrol tank has been repainted in period colors (the transfers are certainly not there).
SHEET METAL: Believed to be all original – no dents. The bike is in oil-rag condition throughout.
CHROME: The chrome/nickel on the bike is reasonable but is not show quality. The wheel rims and spokes are painted black.
MECHANICAL: The motorcycle has been off the road for roughly three decades and will require recommissioning, including cable inspection, lubrication, and attention to tires, brakes, and steering. While it currently lacks lighting equipment, a period gas headlamp and taillight could be added to complete its specification. (This may be available in an unopened spares box that was shipped over with the bikes). The engine turns freely. It is expected that the engine will run freely after service.
WHEELS & TIRES: It is believed the rims are original. The front and rear tires are beaded-edge Dunlop Motorcycle Cord Extra Heavy 26 x 2.5. The tires are cracked but period for the bike. The tubes are intact, and both tires hold air.
OTHER: The foot peg rubbers are marked Sunbeam and thus not original. The handlebar rubbers are in poor condition. The belt on the bike disintegrated upon moving it, but I believe there is a spare belt in the spares box (yet to be opened). There is also supposed to be a complete set of lighting in the spares box. The hand pump that would have been on the petrol tank is missing.
TITLE: No CA title; a bill of sale can be provided, plus import paperwork.
Hagerty Value Guide: Not directly rated. By inference the following is suggested
ACCESSORIES: Extra parts may be available. There is a video of the bike from 1990 in which Mike Hawkins describes its history and condition.
PRICE: Offered on the range of $12,246 to $17,390 with a Buy Now of $19,250
