1971 · Vintage
The 1971 Triumph Bandit 350 represents a fascinating, albeit brief, chapter in Triumph's history, emerging during a period of intense competition from Japanese manufacturers. This model was intended to expand Triumph's reach into the burgeoning middleweight market, offering a more accessible option than their larger twins. While not as widely recognized as some of its siblings, the Bandit 350 aimed to capture riders looking for a British alternative to popular machines like the Honda CB350 and the Yamaha YR5. Its lineage was somewhat unconventional, being a departure from the traditional Triumph parallel-twin layout, and it faced an uphill battle against established and rapidly innovating rivals.
At the heart of the 1971 Triumph Bandit 350 was a 349.00 ccm (21.30 cubic inches) engine, a unit designed to provide respectable power for its class. This engine produced a peak power output of 34.00 HP (24.8 kW) at 9000 RPM, indicating a need for revs to extract its full potential. This allowed the Bandit 350 to achieve a reported top speed of 160.0 km/h (99.4 mph), a competitive figure for a 350cc machine of the era. Fuel capacity stood at 13.50 litres (3.57 gallons), offering a reasonable range for a motorcycle primarily intended for local commutes and weekend rides. As a vintage category motorcycle, its specifications reflect the engineering capabilities and expectations of the early 1970s.
Riding characteristics of the Bandit 350 would have been typical of a lightweight standard motorcycle of its time. Riders would have experienced an upright stance, offering a comfortable position for varied riding. The relatively light weight for a motorcycle of its displacement, combined with its power delivery, likely made it an agile machine for navigating urban environments and winding country roads. While not a sportbike in the modern sense, its engine characteristics suggested a lively feel when revved, providing a spirited ride for those accustomed to the two-stroke and smaller four-stroke machines of the period.
The 1971 Triumph Bandit 350 was primarily aimed at riders seeking a British-made middleweight, perhaps as a step up from smaller machines or as a more manageable alternative to larger, heavier motorcycles. Its appeal would have been to those who valued a distinct brand identity and a motorcycle with a slightly different character than its Japanese counterparts. Today, as a vintage motorcycle, it holds interest for collectors and enthusiasts of Triumph's lesser-known models, representing a unique moment in the company's development. It offers a glimpse into Triumph's efforts to diversify its product line during a challenging period, making it a noteworthy piece of motorcycle history.
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The Triumph Bandit 350 produces 34 HP, fitting A2 license limits (max 35 kW / 47 HP). For riders 18+.
Estimated average for 349cc class: 45-60 mpg (4.0-5.5 L/100km)
⛽ Tank: 13.50 litres (3.57 gallons)
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