Distributed by Triumph Corporation (Tricor) on the US East Coast.
A total of 227 Triumph T120C TT units were produced for the American market between 1963 and 1967.
American “Class C” regulations prohibited overhead-valve twin-cylinder motorcycles exceeding 500cc. Consequently, a new category was created in the United States: TT (or Steeplechase). This type of race takes place on a dirt track featuring a jump and at least one right-hand turn. The Triumph TT would reign supreme in this discipline, becoming the bike to beat.
This motorcycle was also—and primarily—used for desert racing.
The official designation was T120C TT for models from 1963 to 1965, and T120TT for those from 1966 to 1967.
The first model was tested by *Cycle World* in May 1963.
The chassis remained stock, with a few exceptions:
blanking plates replaced the headlight mounts;
a top fork yoke from the 650 TR6C was used to accommodate wide handlebars;
and the left side panel differed slightly (no toolbox, with different upper and lower mounting points).
It featured aluminum fenders.
The instrument panel was equipped only with a tachometer.
The oil tank had a slightly increased capacity (6 pints, or 2.84 liters, instead of 5 pints).
The engine was modified for racing use:
special 12:1 compression pistons,
twin 30.16mm (1-3/16 inch) Amal Monobloc carburetors (with a large air filter fitted on JOMO models),
a Lucas Energy Transfer (ET) ignition system (battery-less),
and E3134 camshafts.
Racing gearboxes were available as an option.
The advertised power output was 52 to 54 horsepower at 6,500 rpm.
The ’63 and ’64 models featured twin high-level exhaust pipes, one on each side.
In 1965, Triumph adopted the classic “TT pipes”—now iconic—which gave the TT models their distinctive look.
From 1966 onwards, the compression ratio was lowered to 11:1, the final drive ratio was set at 5.41:1, and the bike was fitted with a small 2.5-gallon fuel tank and a 46-tooth rear sprocket.
Heavy-duty fork springs were installed alongside a modified hydraulic system; a restrictor reduced oil flow, making the forks much more effective for off-road use.
The model shown here is a 1965 T120C TT.
Acquired by a French collector in England in 2018, it is registered in France
(Collector’s vehicle registration issued June 5, 2018).
Motorcycle professionally appraised in October 2020.
Documentation from the Triumph Owners’ Motor Cycle Club is available.
(Date of manufacture: 12 October 1965; Date of dispatch: 16 October 1965).
Originally supplied by Triumph Corporation, Baltimore, USA.
The machine is in excellent condition.
Available for viewing in Southwest France.
Details and price upon request.
