Spotlight

1973 Triumph Tiger 750 | 04-17-10

1973 was the first year of the front disc brake, maintaining the drum rear, a nice combo! This bike is somewhat stock with some subtle modifications; some for ride ability and some for styling purposes. The bike has a single Mikuni carburetor kit, Dunstall pipes, (Yes real Dunstalls) and the side panel kit that gives it a retro pre oil frame look. The paintwork was done by me some 10 years ago and still maintains a great appearance.

These post 1971 motorcycles are called oil-in-frame bikes or “OIF” for short. The top spine of the now one-piece frame is a larger diameter making for a ridged frame as well as being able to hold oil. For many years collectors shied away from these OIF bikes, but they’re rapidly gaining popularity and are really great daily riders. Starting OIF production in 1971 Triumph soon introduced a 5 speed transmission in late 1971, early 1972. The early production had problems, but soon was sorted out and the 5 speed is a definite upgrade. Side note, a 5 speed can be fitted to any unit 650 with some modifications and parts. After 1973 all Triumph big twins and Tridents had the 5 speed gear box. The remaining 500cc bikes used their own 4 speed until they stopped production of them in 1974.

I personally am a big fan of an OIF bikes with the retro side panel kit installed as can be seen on this Tiger. The stock air box has been removed and some relocation of items is involved depending on the year of the motorcycle. Also, you will notice an oil cooler mounted where the stock horn was located. This provides great airflow for oil cooling and a great way hide the ugly horn. I tend to remount a smaller and louder horn under one of the side panels.

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