1931 Triumph WL, 350 cc. Registration number Q675 XBB (see t...

Hammer

£2,800

1931 Triumph WL, 350 cc. Registration number Q675 XBB (see text). Frame number B3518. Engine number C2216.
Triumph motorcycles of the early 1930s represent a watershed between the ultra-successful Model P 'flat tanker' and its derivatives, and the new range of models that would be designed by the great Val Page following his arrival in 1932 and further developed by Edward Turner. Typical of these was the 350 cc sidevalve WL, a new introduction for 1931 that featured the then fashionable inclined ('sloper') engine and dry sump lubrication with oil tank in the front of the crankcase, an arrangement first seen on the totally revised NSD model of 1930. Enclosure of the crankcase and gearbox was another popular trend at this time and was offered on various Triumph models including the WL. The latter though, was destined for a relatively short life and was not listed for 1933, thus making it one of the rarer Triumph models of the early 1930's.
This Triumph was originally registered as EL 1174, a Bournemouth plate that was taken off in 1998 and issued with the Q plate. Other history is sketchy but in 1986 it was owned by a Mr A Stokes of Colchester and he had the Maglite rebuilt. In 1987 he had confirmation from the Triumph Owners Motor Cycle Club of its 1931 vintage and it was featured in the November issue of Classic Motorcycle of 1992. Since then time has been unkind to the WL and it is now offered for restoration. Sold with the 1998 MOT and various letters but no registration documents.