In 1902, the first Triumph motorcycle was produced, designed by Johann Schulte, using single-cylinder 2.25-hp Belgian Minerva engine with automatic inlet valve and battery/coil ignition, fitted onto a bicycle frame. The following year 500 units were ordered and sold; a resounding success. By the mid-‘20s the company had moved into a 500,000 square foot facility, employed 3,000 people and could produce nearly 30,000 bikes.

In the era of this bike, the company hit financial problems and in 1936 the Triumph motorcycle businesses were sold to Jack Sangster of Ariel to become the Triumph Engineering Company. Triumph Motorcycles is the largest and longest-running British motorcycle manufacturer. In fact, it claims to be the oldest continuous production motorcycle company in the world, despite its numerous setbacks. Its ability to endure has earned the brand iconic status.

Proudly offered here, this 1936 Triumph 500-cc 5/5 stands as a testament to the superior design, mechanicals and marketing that Triumph used to create an empire. The 5/5 is described as the top 500-cc overhead valve model in its range, and it was also classified as a 'Mark V.' This Val Page designed bike was proclaimed in brochures to be the source “for faultless riding.” Fully outfitted, it has Euro license plates, exquisite black and burgundy paint with gold stripes, plus it is equipped with a folding windscreen and auxiliary headlamp for the side car. The full restoration leaves nothing to want as the motorcycle and side car are museum quality.