1912 Triumphs.
This week we are enabled to outline the Triumph Cycle Co.'s programme for 1912. The four models which appeared at Olympia last year will be retained, and an additional one, the two-speed machine illustrated and described in our last issue, will be first exhibited to the public gaze at the Show. We are given to understand by Mr. Schulte, however, that it will be shown more to interest motor cyclists than anything else, the company making no secret of the fact that they are not so enthusiastic over this mount as over their single-geared machines.
The 1912 catalogue models are as follow : 1, the free engine machine; 2, the roadster model (with pedals); 3, the T.T. roadster; 4, the Tourist Trophy racer.
The improvements in next year's mounts at once attract the eye. The tank has been altered considerably, now being made with round top edges, the one longitudinal seam and riveted end still being used. The tank fixings are underneath. Instead of the clips and screws around the top tube, a flat plate formed on the tube under the tank extends the whole width of the tank, which not only considerably strengthens this portion but gives it a much neater appearance. Needle valves have superseded taps in respect of petrol feed to carburetter and injector, whilst the screwed-on filler caps give place to a patent push-on spring cap.
Foot-operated Spark Advance.
The most novel departure is in connection with the advance and retard of the magneto contact breaker. A tiny pedal is mounted on an extension of the foot brake spindle, its movement being geared up from the contact breaker disc. We are told that this device works perfectly in practice.
The footrests have been considerably amended in design. They are now dropped several inches lower than formerly, and, what is still more important, they are adjustable, and so may be canted at any angle to suit the individual rider. The new pattern spring fork, with large single coil spring acting in tension and compression, which has had severe testing all this year, is, of course, adopted as standard for 1912; and a new Brooks-Triumph saddle, with Brooks's patent compound springing and the seat portion of padded pigskin, shaped anatomically, should conduce to much more comfortable riding. In future, Triumph machines will have belt rims for 7/8in. or 1in. belts.
A new design of front brake has also been adopted. Instead of the stirrup which operates the brake shoes protruding through the front mudguard (which weaken the latter and cause breakages), they are now farther apart, and are outside the guard. Another advantage of this arrangement is that the stirrup, by overlapping the front guard, does not interfere with the removal of the latter fitment. The ball bearing engine has undergone very little alteration, which, however, is not surprising in view of its past successes. Adjustable spring tappets are provided, which should be especially handy should the valves be prone to stretching, and in those far apart periods when a Triumph engine does wear.
Finally, the brake pads are made of a special composition which is non-glazing, and this gives a powerful grip in fine or wet weather. The pannier-bags are of improved design, and have a more secure locking arrangement.
1911 Olympia Show - The Motor Cycle November 9th, 1911. Page 1180
TRIUMPH, No. 119.
Triumph Cycle Co., Ltd., Coventry. – Motor cyclists have the choice of four different model Triumphs, each with the same power unit. These are (1) the free engine model, (2) the standard pattern with pedals. (3) the T.T. roadster with touring equipment, and (4) the T.T. racer.
The 1912 improvements, which are minor in character, have been already dealt with, but we may summarise the departures for next year. Amongst them may be cited the moulded top edge of the tank, which certainly makes a more enhanced appearance and cannot fail to give greater comfort for high speed touring; the spring fork, which is neater and undoubtedly a more efficient shock absorber; adjustable spring tappets; needle valves instead of petrol taps; new front brake; adjustable footrests, enabling a lower position for the foot. The sides of the belt pulley have a ring of round holes which considerably minimise the possibility of belt slip, especially in wet weather. The most novel feature is the new type of magneto advance, which is operated by a small pedal on an extension of the left footrest, the connection requiring only a short rod. This distinctly original fitment seems to attract the show visitor more than anything else, and many are the discussions one hears as to its probable utility on lumpy road surfaces. The Triumphs, as usual, are among the best finished machines in the show, a veritable mass of glitter which seems to draw visitors like a magnet. Harry Long is there with his "40,000 miles in ten months" Triumph, and enjoys a chat with riders he met during his long travels.
1911 Olympia Show - The Motor Cycle November 23rd, 1911. Page 1274
