The International Six Days Trial (ISDT) was accorded great importance by European manufacturers. Until the mid-1960s machines were often 'street-legal' motocrossers, or carefully prepped stock highway models with knobbly tires; inevitably, the ISDT results had a significant impact on sales. Selection for one's national Team was highly coveted, likewise the winning of an individual gold medal. Various nations have dominated the prestigious Trophy and Vase Team awards; Britain until 1953, after which their heavy 500/650cc machines were outpaced by Czechoslovakia and East Germany on home-produced 2-strokes. USA won the Vase in 1973 and 1991 but the ability that so frequently wins the MX des Nations has not yet been attained!

By the late sixties a loss-making British industry was no longer able to supply their national team. They thus turned to the brilliant Eric Cheney, whose BSA and Triumph-powered motocross machines were winning at the international level.

Eric built a handful of dealer-sponsored ISDT Cheney-Triumphs; ironically, some riders preferred his to the factory-supplied machines used previously! With freedom of choice Cheney chose the best equipment for his own twin down-tube chassis into which was slotted a Triumph 5TA motor. Together with tapered conical hubs, Ceriani type forks, and larger alloy fuel tank – but with lights and muffler added – the machine was a highly competitive package.

This ex-ISDT machine was used in the 1968 British Trophy Team (rider unknown), but apparently retired on the first day. Purchased by the vendor from a respected British dirt shop in 1969, it is in authentic condition, with the added bonus of a 1982 restoration by Danny Macias, former BSA/Triumph race chief. Truly, a pedigreed machine with historic provenance! Sold on a Certificate of Title.