
Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Triumph Tiger 100 scores 77/100 overall against Velocette Venom Thruxton on 81/100. On the road: 63–63. As classics: 90–98. Overall result: Velocette Venom Thruxton.

Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd

Photo: Piero at Dutch Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
The numbers
| Category | Triumph Tiger 100 | Velocette Thruxton | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 7 | Velocette Thruxton |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 9 | Velocette Thruxton |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 6 | Velocette Thruxton |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 5 | Triumph Tiger 100 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 6 | 5 | Triumph Tiger 100 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Velocette Thruxton |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Velocette Thruxton |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Velocette Thruxton |
you want a lighter sporting Triumph with an important name, lively handling and traditional 500cc twin character.
you want an exquisitely made sporting single with racing credibility, fine handling and blue-chip British collector status.
Background
The Triumph Tiger 100 was produced from 1939–1973 and used a 498cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
The Velocette Venom Thruxton was produced from 1965–1971 and used a 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Present-day appeal
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph Tiger 100. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Velocette Venom Thruxton. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Period opposition
Final result
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Velocette Venom Thruxton wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Velocette Venom Thruxton takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.