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Crampton Classic

Not many people have heard of the Crampton Classic, but that could have been a different story if things had gone another way. You see, this working prototype – which is based on the Triumph Speed Triple – initially had the full support of Triumph, but just as it was going into production Triumph changed their mind and decided not to supply the engines. Sadly, without the Triumph engines this put a halt on production forever.

This modern day café racer was designed and built by Ian Cramp back in 2001. The motorcycle only weighed 380 lbs (172kg) and had a power output of 147 brake horse power. This is how Ian describes his creation: "An exclusive, limited edition, hand-built motorcycle made in England using British parts wherever possible, combining traditional appearance and craftsmanship with modern performance."

This one of a kind Crampton Classic is now owned by Dave Watkins Jones who purchased it from Ian a few years back. This unique machine takes number one place in his small collection of mainly Italian bikes near Wareham in Dorset UK. Regularly used and enjoyed with no complaints whatsoever. "In short, a dream to own!" says Dave.

I asked Ian if he regretted selling his pride and joy, because not only has it become a piece of motorcycling history, but it must have held enormous sentimental value to him. "The prototype was then just sitting in the workshop gathering dust, so it had to go. I try not to get sentimental about bikes, or indeed any "things". I value my family and my friends... I don't get attached to lumps of metal in the same way."

Specifications

Engine: 3 cylinder 955cc 12 valve DOHC with electronic fuel injection, supplied by Triumph Motorcycles. Tuning to customer specification (from the 1999 speed triple).

Chassis: Sifbronze welded tubular steel spaceframe adjustable for flex, powder coated, with engine as fully stressed member.

Front suspension: Sifbronze welded tubular steel girder fork, powder coated, with rising-rate linkage to double-adjustable gas-filled spring/damper unit with remote reservoir, supplied by Ohlins.

Rear suspension: Sifbronze welded tubular steel double-sided swinging-arm, powder coated, with rising-rate linkages to twin double-adjustable gas-filled spring/damper units with piggy-back reservoirs and hydraulic preload adjustment, supplied by Ohlins.

Front brakes:Twin 320mm floating discs with six piston calipers, supplied by PFM.

Rear brake: Single 260mm fixed disc with four-piston caliper.

Front tyre:120/70-R17, supplied by Avon Tyres

Rear tyre: 180/55-R17, supplied by Avon Tyres

Seat height: 720mm

Weight: 172kg

Source Source: Pipeburn via Ian Cramp