What's special about old Triumph/BSA twins?

 In _On Any Sunday II_ the narrator says re Japanese
Speedway races: "Even though Japan makes 90%
of the motorcycles in the world, these bikes mostly
use ancient Triumph and BSA twins."

What is so special about these old Brit motors?
(ie why wouldn't they use their own?)

Even Steve McQueen seemed to prefer a Triumph
for his desert racer; I posted some pix on
alt.binaries.pictures.motorcycles.

Sean_Q_

 

Well, if you have to ask....


--


By it's very nature, my sig. makes this posting 100% on topic.

"Of course, you'll have the good taste not to mention that I posted this."

Thumper

"I don't want a pickle..."
 http://www.thumpers-roadhouse.ws

 2007 H-D FXSTD Deuce
 2006 Buell Ulysees
 2006 BMW K1200GT
 2004 H-D Road King Classic
 1978 Triumph T140V Bonneville
 1975 Triumph T160 Trident
 1974 Norton Commando Interstate
 1969 BSA R75 Red Rocket III
 1962 Triumph T20 Tiger Cub
 1958 BSA Super Bantam COCK
 1954 Velocette MAC

 Thumper wrote:


Reckon I do; I once had a brand new 69 BSA Thunderbolt
and there wasn't anything particularly special about
the motor, unless you count dripping oil, bone-shaking
vibration and poky performance (Jap bikes would leave me
way behind wondering if Britannia still ruled anything).

Sean_Q_

 

The Japanese motorcycle manufacturers put ALL of the British motorcycle
manufacturers OUT of business in the 1970's.

I love 'em because they are unique and are very fun to ride. Right now, 3 of
my Brits are broken down.

McQueen loved them, as well. Now, on the track they're ridden on vintage
track days.

Thumper
Old Brit. lover

 Thumper wrote:


Mebbe I should have bought a Triumph instead of a Beezer.
I got to ride a friend's Bonneville and liked it a lot
better. They still show up used around here now and then
so mebbe I'll look out for one.


Sean_Q_