The Triumph Grand Prix was a purpose build racer developed from the immediate post-war Tiger 100. Produced in very limited numbers between 1947-1950, it is believed only 150-170 examples were ever produced.
Powered by a 498 cc OHV parallel twin producing roughly 40–42 hp at around 7,200 rpm, the Grand Prix was notably more powerful than the standard Tiger 100. With a dry weight of about 142 kg and a claimed top speed nearing 190 km/h, it was indeed a competitive offer in period.
This particular 1949 Triumph Grand Prix was delivered in May 1949 to C H P M Motozbyt in Poland. Further racing history is to be researched but clearly this Grand Prix racer was used as the maker intended: the Grand Prix suffered a hard life on the track and as a consequence the engine and gearbox have been replaced through time, as is often the case with out and out race bikes.
In 1991 the Triumph Grand Prix was discovered in a barn in Poland by its current owner, a keen, classic car and motorcycle enthusiast. The Grand Prix was mostly complete but in need of a complete rebuild which the owner has undertaken with great care and attention to originality.
The frame and most other parts on the motorcycle are genuine Grand Prix items. The frame number is verified in a 1991 letter to the owner by then editor of The Classic Motorcycle, Phillip Tooth. The original letter comes with the bike. The VMCC in England have also confirmed the frame number in recent times.
The original ‘square’ alloy cylinder of the Grand Prix, originally used on wartime generators, had to be replaced during the rebuild. Luckily, another square cylinder was sourced. The original cylinder comes with the bike.
The original and rare Dunlop ally rims that were still fitted on the bike prior to restoration were deemed not safe for riding and were replaced with never items. The original Dunlop alloy rims are still with the bike.
The original front brake plate in magnesium is fitted and in very good condition with no signs of corrosion. The original Grand Prix petrol and oil tank, the original footrests and brake pedal are fitted.
Triumph telescopic forks, and Triumph’s unique sprung-hub rear suspension completes the specification and despite the quirks of its sprung hub rear suspension, the Grand Prix’s racing pedigree still earned it a significant place in British motorcycle racing history.
Here is a chance to own a genuine Triumph Grand prix racer coming from long term ownership, fully restored and using as many genuine Grand Prix components as is possible after a life of period racing. There are many Grand prix Triumphs around, but not many with genuine, documented history.
Please get in touch for more information and photos. The Triumph can be viewed in Copenhagen.
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