1956 Thunderbird 650 Triumph

by Tim
(Oakland, California, USA)

Tim's 1956 Yellow Mellow Machine
Ride With The Wind


Purchased motorcycle on February 14, 1972 for only $50.00. The motorcycle was not running but wanted to convert this 1956 Triumph 650 pre-unit into a Harley Davidson. Back in those days, all 19 year old motorcycle riders that had previously owned motorcycles before wanted a Harley Davidson. The only obstacle was $$$$. The initial purchase of a Harley Davidson was possible, however all the money would have been used for the acquisition and no money left over for maintenance. The engine bored to a 750, the frame was modified to a Hard Tail, various parts were chromed, the front end extended to max, the rear tire is a Harley, the gas tank was switched to a peanut tank, Harley cobra seat, tt pipes, 16 inch tire spokes, octagon oil tank, pull back “Easy Rider” handle bars and the list goes on. After many hours in garage, it was completed in 1973. A test drive around San Francisco beach registering approximately a total of 50 miles is all that this mellow yellow machine has on it. Off to college and currently after 41 years this British vintage motorcycle sits in the office of our home for safety purposes…..not bike safety but human safety. I promised spouse never to ride again because of her concerns for my safety. Temptation to ride is always there but Discipline will always prevail even when a friend gives out a shout.

You have my permission to use the photos & text about my motorcycle in any way you want on your website, without compensation to me.