This Triumph’s Tale: Restoring a Classic Ride
Oh, the irresistible allure of a classic motorcycle—the kind that screams style, grit, and “I’m not just a motorcycle, I’m a statement!” Enter the 1965 Triumph Mountain Cub, a two-wheeler with enough vintage charm to make you contemplate swapping your modern ride for a slice of nostalgic glory. Acquired by the current owner just this year, it’s had the kind of makeover that would be the envy of any self-respecting reality show contestant.
Beauty in Burgundy and Black
This little gem is not just about the roar of its overhauled 199cc four-stroke single engine, oh no. The curb appeal has been thoroughly cranked up with a stunning metallic burgundy and black paint job. If you care about what’s happening on the outside as much as what’s under the hood, then brace yourself. The two-up seat, polished mid-mounted exhaust, and Smiths instrumentation give it that quintessential old-school Triumph vibe.
Vintage doesn’t just mean old; it’s a glorious comeback.
Chrome Wheels and Knobby Tires: A Perfect Match
Now, let’s talk wheels—because, let’s face it, what’s a motorcycle without a snazzy set of tires? Here, you’ve got chrome 19″ front and 18″ rear wheels, laced lovingly to hubs with new spokes and wearing knobby tires. It’s all about that grip and the ride, baby.
Built for the rough and tumble, the Mountain Cub boasts a suspension system that’s just as impressive, featuring a conventional fork with rubber gaiters and twin shrouded shocks. Brake drums on both ends with replacement shoes mean you get to stop as stylishly as you start.
Reviving the Retro Engine
Underneath all that surface-level pizzazz lies the heart of the beast—the 199cc four-stroke single equipped with a kick starter and a polished mid-mounted exhaust. The Amal carburetor, alongside the engine, has been diligently overhauled. From honing the cylinder to installing a replacement oil pump, this ride’s got its mojo back.
- Cylinder honing and resurfacing the cylinder head
- Valve grinding with new valves
- Swapping in a 7:1 compression piston
- Fresh ignition points and condenser
- A shiny new alternator and wiring harness
- New gaskets, bearings, and bushings
If you think all this hard work doesn’t pay off, check out the 85-mph Smiths speedometer—it shows a reassuringly low 2k miles.
Handlebars and Transmission: Fun Meets Function
The tale of restoration continues with the replacement chrome handlebar, fitted with brand-new grips and cables. And speaking of parts with fresh beginnings, the four-speed transmission doesn’t disappoint. It’s been taken apart and reassembled with the kind of care usually reserved for heart surgeons.
With a replacement kick starter gear, clutch plates, and a wet clutch to deliver power through a right-side shifter, this Mountain Cub ensures every gearshift feels blazingly smooth. The sale even includes a workshop manual and sets of tools for those tinkering days.
If restoration is a journey, this Triumph Mountain Cub has traveled well.
Final Thoughts
Summing up the taut lines and matchless spirit of this 1965 Triumph Mountain Cub, it’s a classic in every sense. A ride for those who believe in the art of both performance and nostalgia, it’s got history ingrained in its very frame. It’s less about getting from A to B and more about reliving an era where the ride was the destination. And while you’re in that mindset, why not also check out some retro wheels like Audi or maybe even an Opel Movano?