When it comes to bikes, nothing can beat an old and legendary Triumph bike. Its classic and unique look has played a major role in the history on bike manufacturing. But this specific one, the 1938 Triumph FT Speed Twin, has an incredible story behind itself.
Namely, it was owned by none other than Steve McQueen. But the story does not end there and goes to the lesser known Ekins moniker. Ekins was a motorcycle racer, Hollywood stuntman and Triumph bike dealer.
In the period of 1960s he operated a Triumph dealership in Hollywood. He worked as a stuntman on “The Great Escape” and “Bullitt” together with McQueen. Continue reading and check out the other photos on PAGE 2
It was in this period when both of them became friends and in the 1970s Ekins restored the Triumph bike for McQueen. McQueen kept the bike until 1984, when he sold it on auction.
This January the `38 Triumph hoped to find a new home at auction, but failed to meet reserve. This bike presents the new era of motors developed by Edward Turner. Whoever the new owner might be, this bike would make him look cool.
Steve McQueen`s acting career went sky-high and this great actor became the actor with the highest earnings in the world.
By the mid ’70’s the British motorbike industry was in crisis but the newly designs of Edward Turner ensured that the Triumph as a brand would rise again.
What do you think, can you name any other classic and legendary bikes? Finally, see the best motorcycle buys of 2017!
