The 1962 650cc TR6R, which is presently on display at the Triumph Factory Visitor Experience at Hinckley in Leicestershire, has not been shown publicly since this celluloid classic was made in 1963. It is just one of a mouth-watering array of iconic motorcycles which will be vying for honours at Blenheim Palace across three classes.
An accomplished amateur racer on 2 and 4-wheels, McQueen begged the film’s director John Sturges to let him perform the famous stunt which saw his character Virgil Hilts attempt to flee his pursuers by jumping across barricades and barbed wire from Germany into neutral Switzerland.
The film’s insurers wouldn’t allow it, so the task fell to the King of Cool’s great friend and sometime team-mate Bud Ekins instead. World War 2-era machines would not have been up to the task, so as many as three TR6Rs were aged to look the part and used for the rough stuff. The stunt entered into legend in an instant and helped cement the film’s legendary status.
The McQueen Triumph will be competing in Class B, with judging taking place on August 30. It will be on general display on Friday, August 31.
Salon Privé welcomes bike enthusiasts from all over the world to share their passion for classic motorbikes. Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance holds three classes for two-wheeled classics:
Class A: Exceptional Motorbikes 1900-1939
Class B: Exceptional Motorbikes 1940-1979
Class C: Exceptional Competition Motorbikes
Salon Privé will spring into action from 30th August to 1st September. Firmly established as the UK’s most exclusive automotive Garden Party and one of the longest-running and most successful motoring events in the UK, this year marks a particularly special milestone as the event moves to the foot of the Palace becoming the first event ever to be located on the famous Blenheim Palace Cricket Pitch.
Salon Privé showcases two Concours celebrations within the same event; firstly, the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance on Thursday 30th August which is followed by Concours Masters Celebrates 70 Years of Porsche on Saturday 1st September. Boodles Ladies’ Day sits in the middle on Friday 31st August which has fast become a social highlight of the Summer Season.
