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Memorable Motorcycles - 1938 Triumph Speedtwin Photo Gallery

With clean external lines and fully enclosed, oil tight valve gear, the Speedtwin was ultra modern for 1937 - and in every respect a sophisticated motor.

This month our vintage editor looks back at an English original that redefined the motorcycle landscape – the Triumph Speedtwin. Read the full story in Memorable Motorcycles: 1938 Triumph Speedtwin.

Unlike the '38 Speedtwin, cutting edge bikes at the time were suitable only for the enthusiast. They were all expensive to make and demanded a lot of maintenance.

Critics often argue that the Speedtwin is one of the most overrated motorcycles in the world. However, most will agree that the bike is beautifully built and has a magical quality.

The color choice of 'Triumph Amaranth Red' was daring and edgy during a period when black was the standard color for most motorcycles.

The Speedtwin was quintessentiallyJapanese in that it was a user-friendly product which had mass market appeal.

Turner also made the Twin cheap and easy to manufacture so that from Day One, the Speedtwin generated profit for the Triumph company.

Triumph was bought out in the early 1930's by John 'Jack' Sangster who owned Ariel Motorcycles.

The Triumph Speedtwin model is largely responsible for making Triumph into one of the most popular motorcycle manufacturers in the world.

The Speedtwin's engine was narrower than the single and was also lighter with smoother power delivery.

The Speedtwin produced only 27 hp, which was a third less than the popular supersport Singles of the day.