Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

Historical Context

The 1972 Triumph Trident T150 was one of Britain’s leading high-performance motorcycles of the early 1970s. Powered by Triumph’s distinctive three-cylinder engine, the Trident was developed alongside the closely related BSA Rocket 3 and offered considerably more performance than the traditional British parallel twins. The Trident had established an impressive reputation both on the road and in competition, but by 1972 it was facing increasingly strong competition from a new generation of Japanese multi-cylinder superbikes.

Technical Specifications and Performance

• Year: 1972
• Make: Triumph
• Model: Trident T150
• Engine Displacement: 740cc
• Engine Type: Air-cooled OHV inline three-cylinder four-stroke
• Bore and Stroke: 67mm x 70mm
• Compression Ratio: Approx. 9.5:1
• Carburetion: Three Amal Concentric carburettors
• Starting System: Kick start
• Transmission Type: 4-speed manual on the T150; later T150V models used a 5-speed gearbox
• Final Drive: Chain
• Cooling System: Air-cooled
• Braking System: Drum brakes on earlier T150 specification; later versions gained a front disc
• Power: Approximately 58 bhp
• Top Speed: Approximately 120 mph depending on condition and gearing

Technical Advancements

The Trident’s defining feature was its 740cc three-cylinder engine. Developed from Triumph’s established twin-cylinder architecture, the triple provided smoother power delivery and substantially greater high-speed performance while retaining the mechanical character associated with British motorcycles. Three Amal carburettors fed the individual cylinders, and the unusual three-cylinder layout gave the Trident its distinctive exhaust note and strong performance.

Evolution of the Model

The Triumph Trident T150 entered production at the end of the 1960s alongside BSA’s closely related Rocket 3. The design was progressively developed during the early 1970s, and the later T150V introduced a 5-speed gearbox along with other improvements. The Trident subsequently evolved into the T160, which incorporated a revised chassis, electric starting and further mechanical changes. Because 1972 was a period of transition, individual machines can differ in specification and surviving project bikes may also have acquired later components during their lives.

Competitors in the Market

In 1972, the Trident faced competition from the Norton Commando 750 and its BSA Rocket 3 stablemate, as well as increasingly sophisticated Japanese motorcycles. Honda’s CB750 had already transformed expectations for large-capacity motorcycles, while Kawasaki introduced its powerful 903cc Z1 for the 1972 model year. Despite this competition, the Triumph remained highly regarded for its performance, handling and distinctive three-cylinder character.

Legacy and Appeal

The T150 Trident is now recognised as one of the landmark British performance motorcycles of its era. Triumph and BSA triples also enjoyed notable competition success, helping establish an enduring enthusiast following. As a project bike, this 1972 T150 offers the opportunity to establish its exact original specification and restore an increasingly significant British classic. Its 740cc triple engine, distinctive sound and important place in the development of the superbike make the Trident a particularly interesting restoration project.