Triumph 1921 Model H 549cc 1 cyl sv 3606

Triumph 1921 Model “H” 549cc side valve single frame # 317225 engine # 63612 PTO

The model H is announced late in 1914 as a logical development of the famous veteran “Trusty”. But it isn’t just a 1914 model with a countershaft gearbox: the engine differs from the veteran engine in various ways. It has a single camwheel with 2 cams instead of separate camwheels for the inlet and exhaust valves. The casting for the cylinder is entirely new, the valve head diameter is enlarged by ¼ inch and the valves are spaced further apart. A great improvement over the 1914 style 3-speed hub is the Sturmey Archer countershaft gearbox. The primary chain drive is enclosed by a neat aluminium cover; secondary drive is by belt.
The new model becomes available in February 1915 and most of the production goes to the British Armed forces; in 1918 the army has just over 17,000 Model H’s. It is not until 1919 that the Model H is again available, in very small numbers, for the civilian market and many ex- army machines are sold off at surplus sales at Slough. The PTO engine number suffix refers to June, 1919 as production month of the engine. From the 1920 model year the gearchange lever is mounted on the saddle downtube and the frame is strengthened and gets sidecar lugs.
For detailed information on the Model “H” consult the late Peter Cornelius’ “The Facts” booklet, surf to https://triumph.gen.nz/Booklets.htm#The_Facts_Booklets Peter’s son Richard now acts as a custodian for his “The Facts” booklets.
This trusty H is a very well preserved older restoration. She comes with ML magneto, Lucas bulb horn and acetylene front light with generator. Interesting are the optional sprung footboards, not often seen on surviving machines. For more than 30 years she has been part of the Honda Museum Collection in Japan. The Triumph is in running condition, but some recommissioning may be required, due to her long period of static display.