| Specification |
Engine: |
Configuration: | 4-stroke, parallel twin |
Capacity: | 649cc |
Bore x Stroke: | 71mm x 82mm |
Compression: | 7.5:1 |
Transmission: |
Gears: | 4 |
Performance: |
Max. Power: | 34bhp @ 6300rpm |
Cycle Parts: |
Front Wheel: | 3.25 x 18 |
Rear Wheel: | 3.50 x 18 |
Front Suspension: | Telescopic forks |
Rear Suspension: | Swinging arm |
Front Brakes: | 8in single leading shoe |
Rear Brakes: | 7in single leading shoe |
Dimensions: |
Length: | 2135mm |
Seat Height: | 762mm |
Wheelbase: | 1396mm |
Dry Weight: | 167kg |
Fuel Tank: | 18.2l |
Marlon Brando rode a 1950 Thunderbird in his 1953 film 'The Wild One', despite Triumph's importers objecting about the use of their machine in a film about rowdy motorcycle gangs.
It was rumoured that the bike got its name from a South Carolina motel. Edward Turner was passing through South Carolina in the late 1940s and checked in for the night at the Thunderbird Motel. When he asked about the name, never having heard of this sort of bird, he was told that it was an American Indian symbol which brought good luck.
The bike used a bored out Speed Twin engine to give extra horsepower for the American market and was launched in France.
Profile created by Ian Leedham on 22/07/2009. Last edited by Laurence Mee on 04/05/2010.
If you want to edit this profile to add more text or change one of the specifications then
please click here. If you want to upload a new image then
please click here. Please note that only members of the Club who have validated their login details may edit this profile.