[Gerry Burke]

My son and I just bought a 1961 triumph. The owner said it was a 550 which I've never heard of. It is missing some parts like the gas tank, seat lights etc... How can I tell exactly what model we have? Are there any great manuals that I should get to help us rebuild the bike? Thanks!

 

[CRFyou]

My son and I just bought a 1961 triumph. The owner said it was a 550 which I've never heard of. It is missing some parts like the gas tank, seat lights etc... How can I tell exactly what model we have? Are there any great manuals that I should get to help us rebuild the bike? Thanks!

Engine number on the left side case. What's it say? Is it unit construction? Then it could be a 500.

You'll want to get a Haynes manual, but it doesn't cover everything. So also download the repair manual as well as parts manual from the Tech section here.

http://www.jockeyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36194

http://www.classicbike.biz/Triumph/Triumph.htm

 

[dudley32]

serial numbers are the best way to identify...engine and frame...

 

[need louvers ?]

The other one would be whether it has a single down tube in the frame or a double down tube. The single would be the 500, and the double would be the 650, assuming the frame is the original to the bike.

 

[Cosmo]

Get it titled FIRST!!!

Cosmo

 

[not45blesk]

Can you post some photos ?

 

[hotsos]

post pics of the bike and close up to the parts and the VIN, your answer will be delivered immediately im sure. we are all crazy here!!