This short film, Blazer by Simon and Gregory Mills (The Mills Twins), features an unfortunate rider experiencing some trouble with his bike, a silver Triumph Blazer 25SS. The piece is framed around the quote:
“The test of the machine is the satisfaction it gives you. There isn’t any other test. If the machine produces tranquillity, it’s right. If it disturbs you, it’s wrong until either the machine or your mind is changed.”
― Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values
The Blazer SS was a street scrambler model produced by Triumph from 1970 to 1971. BSA-Triumph announced its 1971 models in November 1970, in a group launch that effectively signalled the end of BSA-Triumph. The Triumph T25SS Blazer emerged – a 247cc pushrod single BSA B25 rebadged.
There were a few upgrades, however: The Blazer came with a new oil-bearing frame, conical hubs, braced Moto-X bars and exhausts tucked inside the frame rails. Period figures suggest 22.5bhp at 8,250rpm and 15.8lb-ft at 7,000rpm through a four-speed box, fed by a 28mm Amal concentric, at 290lb dry.
According to the Triumph Owners’ Motor Cycle Club, it has excellent handling and was well-received on its release, despite its parts-bin origins.
Regardless, it lasted less than a year. The 250s were dropped in August 1971 as the group collapsed. That’s why you seldom see Blazer SS machines, and why the model has a cult following and is seen as a sought-after, off-road thumper by vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.
