1973-triumph-x75-hurricane_1

In 1969, in an effort to expand the niche of the new BSA Rocket 3 “triple”, designer Craig Vetter was given one to experiment with. The fantastic X75 Hurricane was the result. Featuring lots of polish and chrome and a bright orange paint scheme with yellow reflective striping, the Hurricane’s appearance moved far past the dull green and red offerings of the stock machine.

BSA was out of business by 1973 and Norton was nearing its end. Competition from Japan was strong; the Honda CB750 hit in late 1969 along with the Kawasaki H1. The American market was extremely important to British bike manufacturer Triumph. It’s said that what Triumph was after was a chopper version of its 750cc triple to feed the styling trend fueled by Easy Rider; extended front ends, skinny front wheels and upswept exhaust was happening in the motorcycle scene. But working in glass fiber reinforced resin and plenty of chrome, schooled and knowing Craig Vetter gave them instead a more lasting look.

The standard Rocket 3 front end was slimmed by removing the fork gaitors and using an abbreviated chromed fender with light wire stays. Placing the headlight high adds to the impression of long forks, which were extended about an inch over stock. The fuel tank, a sleek but too small two and a half gallon sculpture, necked down to transition into integrated side-covers, then a seat pan. Upswept triple exhausts add motion and visual weight to the rear of the bike, though right side ground clearance was a problem. This is a great example of a schooled Industrial Designer at work.

A somewhat impractical styling exercise that hit late in the reign of the British motorcycle, more expensive than a standard Triumph Triple, the Hurricane was slow to sell. About 1200 Hurricanes were made. They are now highly collectible for their unique style by an American designer, Craig Vetter, and today prices are increasing rapidly.

This bike is displayed in the Best of the Best gallery sponsored by Hagerty Insurance and is on loan from Jerry Rewerts of Nevada, Iowa. When you visit the National Motorcycle Museum you can observe Vetter’s great remake of the BSA Rocket 3, which then became a Triumph.

Specifications:

    • Engine: OHV Three Cylinder
    • Bore & Stroke: 67mm x 70mm
    • Displacement: 744cc’s
    • Carburetors: Three 27mm Amals
    • Horsepower: 58
    • Primary: Duplex Chain
    • Transmission: 5-Speed
    • Electrics: 12 Volt
    • Suspension: Telescopic Fork/Dual Shocks, Swingarm
    • Wheels/Tires: 3.25 x 19 / 4.25 x 18
    • Wheelbase: 57 Inches
    • Brakes: Drum; 200mm / 175mm
    • Weight: 465 Pounds
    • Top Speed: 115 Miles Per Hour
4 replies
  1. Dave Scanavino
    Dave Scanavino says:

    By 73 Honda had well proven the front disc brake. I think the Hurricane would have looked better with one.

    Reply
  2. David Van Grinsven
    David Van Grinsven says:

    I saw this bike when I was at the museum several years ago. I am amazed that the owner was able to keep it in such perfect condition. It’s truly one of the gems on display. I’m really happy that it is being preserved for the enjoyment of future generations of motorcycle enthusiasts but I still want to ride it really bad. 😉

    Reply
  3. Jim Todd
    Jim Todd says:

    One year at the Baxter Cycle Rally Craig Vetter was there giving a seminar. His description of how he came up with the design for the Hurricane was quite interesting and how he contrasted styling of American Bikes Vs. other makes. What really surprised me was that the color scheme he used was inspired by the Sante Fe Streamliners. Used to watch them arrive at the train station at night when we visited southern relatives so that really hit a note. JT

    Reply
  4. Paul Gilkerson
    Paul Gilkerson says:

    I remember drooling over these orange Hurricanes when they were new and on the showroom at McNay Cycles in Quincy, Illinois and Irvin Cycles in Keokuk, Iowa.
    Paul Gilkerson

    Reply

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