The Rising Stars - Classic British Motorcycles That Are Quickly Gaining Popularity

When you think of Classic British motorcycles, what comes to mind?

Do you think of the iconic Triumph Bonneville? Or how about the powerful and fast Norton commando?

Everyone that rides or has been around classic motorcycles is probably familiar with some of the names mentioned above, but today I wanted to discuss some of the “rising stars” that are quickly gaining popularity in the vintage British motorcycle scene

Let’s face it, models like the Triumph Bonneville or Norton Commando will one day be too expensive for the average “Joe” to purchase or maintain, so what’s the alternative for new folks getting into the hobby?

Bikes and parts that are easy to obtain and affordable!

Today I will go over our "3 picks"; popular British motorcycles that I believe in the near future will be popular and valuable to own

I’ll also go into detail and explain what makes them popular, and why you might build, ride, and also want to invest in one..

Let’s dive in and uncover the 3 models that we like to call, “The Rising Stars”

#3 - Triumph 350 / 500

The Triumph 350 and 500 unit twins are very underrated small capacity motorcycles

They where produced from 1957-1974 with many changes and improvements made throughout the 12 year span

Some models produced are extremely rare such the T100SC, TR5A/C or TR5A/R, however other models are like the 3TA, 5TA, T100R or T100C are readily available on the market today 

Parts can be easily found on eBay for cheap, and most (not all) new parts can be found new, especially for the later and more common models such as the Daytona (T100R) & Trophy (T100C) models 

If you can’t find or afford a “true” Bonneville, you can build a “baby Bonnie” that won’t hurt the bank 

Benefits of owning a unit 350 / 500 twin:

• Projects easily found
• Affordable parts
• Good resale valve
• Very attractive machines
• Moderate mechanical skill level

#2 - Triumph / BSA unit singles 1966-1970

Triumph and BSA unit singles made from 1966-1970 are very attractive motorcycles which can be found for pretty cheap, especially in project form condition bikes

It’s not uncommon to find an original and complete unit single project for as low $500

All the unit singles produced from 1966-1970 (except the Cub) where fitted with an alloy barrel and cylinder head, unit singles are one of the only later models that featured an all alloy engine

Not to mention that through studs from the crankcase to the rocker box make the unit singles a very modern design

If your new to vintage British bikes, or your first motorcycle was as single-cylinder model, get them while you can before the prices start to rise

We have noticed a big increase in parts demand for TR25W, B25, and B44 parts in 2020 and we forecast the demand will rise over the next few years

Benefits of owning a unit single (1966-1970):

• Abundance of used parts
• Large selection of project bikes
• Easy to work on / maintain
• Entry level motorcycle

#1 - Triumph cub

Triumph Cubs over the past few years have doubled in popularity and value

Some models are priced equal to or often times more valuable than a restored Triumph 650 twin, especially the rarer Triumph Cub models..

From our perspective, the cub models are the most ideal choice for those looking for a classic motorcycle project that will increase in value more rapidly as compared to #3 the 350 / 500 unit twin or #2, the unit singles

Although cub projects are quickly getting “picked” through, those that do come across a good project should hold onto them and consider a restoration

There is still a good source of used and NOS parts on the market, luckily, many of the Cub parts are interchangeable

Benefits of owning a Triumph Cub:

• Abundance of used parts
• Decent selection of project bikes
• Easy to work on / maintain
• Entry level motorcycle
• Best investment 

Final thoughts 

Just remember when choosing a new project to start, there is more on the market than your average 650 or 750 twin 

British motorcycle company’s made such great motorbikes, however not all where “popular”

When selecting a project, find a motorcycle that works for your budget, skill level and time frame you are working with 

Be bold and be different, try something new on your next classic motorcycle purchase! 

Thanks for reading

Thank you for reading todays blog post 

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Ride safe!