Photo: Steve Glover · CC BY 2.0
Triumph Tiger Cub T20
73/100 Overall
58 On the road88 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Triumph Tiger Cub T20 vs BSA Bantam D7
Triumph Tiger Cub T20 scores 73/100 overall against BSA Bantam D7 on 73/100. On the road: 58–58. As classics: 88–88. Overall result: A draw.
BSA Bantam D7
73/100 Overall
58 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Triumph Tiger Cub | BSA Bantam | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 3 | 2 | Triumph Tiger Cub |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Triumph Tiger Cub |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 4 | Triumph Tiger Cub |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 7 | BSA Bantam |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 9 | BSA Bantam |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | BSA Bantam |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 9 | Level |
Choose the Triumph Tiger Cub if…
you want a light, charming British single with trials heritage and unmistakable 1950s and 1960s character.
Choose the BSA Bantam if…
you want simple British lightweight charm, easy mechanical access and one of BSA's best-known everyday motorcycles.
Background
History
Triumph Tiger Cub
The Triumph Tiger Cub T20 was produced from 1954–1968 and used a 199cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
BSA Bantam
The BSA Bantam D7 was produced from 1959–1966 and used a 172cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, ownership appeal, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Triumph Tiger Cub
- Its production span in this library runs from 1954 to 1968.
- The recorded engine description is: 199cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, character.
BSA Bantam
- Its production span in this library runs from 1959 to 1966.
- The recorded engine description is: 172cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, ownership appeal, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Triumph Tiger Cub
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph Tiger Cub T20. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
BSA Bantam
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the BSA Bantam D7. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Triumph Tiger Cub
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
BSA Bantam
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Triumph Tiger Cub
Rivals to the BSA Bantam
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.