Save the Triumph Bonneville

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The Triumph Bonneville, known as "the best motorcycle in the world," holds a legendary status, with the Meriden factory being a pilgrimage site for fans and celebrities like Steve McQueen. However, just as it was poised for a record sales season, the BSA parent company collapsed, prompting the formation of Norton-Villiers-Triumph and the controversial decision to close Meriden. In response, the workers locked out the new owners, leading to intense political negotiations influenced by shifting government policies, economic conditions, and the persistent global demand for Triumph motorcycles. This narrative intertwines sociopolitical changes with the economic turmoil faced by Triumph and the UK. John Rosamond, a socialist and key figure in the workers' co-operative, provides a unique perspective as he transitioned from worker to chairman, highlighting the deep passion of employees, customers, and dealers for the brand. Despite these struggles, the Bonneville became the best-selling motorcycle in its class and won the Motor Cycle News Motorcycle of the Year award in the late seventies. Yet, within a few years, both Meriden and the Bonneville faded away. The account details the failed rescue attempts, negotiations with the Thatcher government, and the introduction of new models aimed at attracting potential investors, all illustrated with rare photographs from the workers' collections, making this a definitive history of Triumph's