ace classics
the story
Steve McQueen had a deep passion for Triumph motorcycles. He wasn't just associated with them in his films; he personally owned dozens, often riding them through the dunes near his California home. These bikes appeared in some of the most iconic photos of the era.
Ace Classics carries on the passion for Classic Triumph motorcycles, and in recent years, they have crafted several Steve McQueen replica bikes. These include legendary models like The Great Escape motorcycle, Desert Sleds, and the 1964 ISDT bike that McQueen rode in East Germany for Team USA.
collection
1961 TR6 Desert Sled #955
In March 1962, Steve McQueen competed in the Four Aces Moose Run, a cross-country National Championship motorcycle race. Out of over 100 participants, he finished 45th overall and secured 3rd place in the Novice division. His close friend Bud Ekins, who also competed, finished 2nd overall. McQueen completed the race on his Triumph TR6 Desert Sled #955.
the great escape motorcycle
The motorcycles used in the chase scene of The Great Escape were 1961 Triumph TR6 Trophy models, disguised as German BMW R75s. Steve McQueen, the star of the film, did much of the riding himself, though the iconic jump was performed by his stunt double, Bud Ekins. The bikes were converted for the movie by pinstriper and artist Von Dutch while working at Ekins’ shop.
1963 T120 TT Desert Sled #502
In the late '50s and early '60s, Steve McQueen had several desert sleds custom-built at his friend Bud Ekins' shop on Ventura Boulevard for racing and "cow trailing" in the California desert. In October 1963, McQueen purchased one of the first top-of-the-line T120C 650 TT Specials from Johnson Motors and entrusted it to Bud for conversion into a desert sled.
1963 T120 Desert Sled
Ace Classics' replica of the 1963 Bud Ekins TT Desert Sled pays homage to the legendary "Desert Fox," as Ekins was known, reigning as King of the Desert for many years. This bike is equipped with high-level pipes, a Bates desert seat, a 1957 half-width front hub, and braced bars to handle the rugged desert terrain.
1964 ISDT 278 Replica
In 1964, Steve McQueen competed in the ISDT Trial in East Germany, riding a 1964 TR6 SC provided by Triumph, which he personally modified at Comerfords in London. Today, Ace Classics recreates replicas of this iconic machine, meticulously crafting the unique parts McQueen customized, such as the air bottle, the bash plate for the chaincase, special quick-release front and rear wheels, and more.
ARTICLES
Remaking the 1964 Triumph TR6 ISDT
In 1964, Steve McQueen represented the United States at the (ISDT) in East Germany. A Triumph TR6 had been delivered to McQueen in London where he personally modified the machine in preparation for the race.
Your Very Own Great Escape
On July 20th, 1963, an all-time classic movie was released. For gentlemen of a certain age, The Great Escape remains a favourite film, and is remembered by all who've seen it for a particular scene - the famous motorcycle chase.