???? GENERAL INFORMATION
- Thread Size: Most Triumph motorcycles from 1950 to 1985 used 14mm thread plugs.
- Reach (Thread Length): Typically ¾ inch (19mm).
- Hex Size: Usually 13/16 inch (21mm).
⚙️ COMMONLY USED SPARK PLUGS
| Model/Engine | Standard Spark Plug | Cold Plug (Hard Use) | Hot Plug (Light Use) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 350cc/500cc Pre-Unit Twins | NGK B7ES / Champion N3 | NGK B8ES | NGK B6ES |
| 650cc Unit Twins (Bonneville, Tiger, TR6, etc.) | NGK B7ES / Champion N3 | NGK B8ES | NGK B6ES |
| T120 Bonneville (Pre-1971) | NGK B7ES/Champion N3C | NGK B8ES | NGK B6ES |
| T140 Bonneville (750cc, 1973–1983) | NGK B8ES/ Champion N5C | NGK B9ES | NGK B7ES |
| TR7 Tiger (750cc single-carb) | NGK B8ES/ Champion N5C | NGK B9ES | NGK B7ES |
| 350/500cc Singles (e.g., Tiger Cub, T100) | NGK B6ES | NGK B7ES | NGK B5ES |
????Tip: Use colder plugs (higher numbers for NGK) for high-speed or hot weather riding. Use hotter plugs (lower numbers for NGK) in cooler climates or for slow city riding to prevent fouling.
???? PLUG GAP
- Standard Gap: 0.025–0.028 inches (0.6–0.7mm)
- For Electronic Ignition: Often 0.028–0.032 inches (0.7–0.8mm), depending on the system.
???? HEAT RANGE COMPARISON
| Heat Range | NGK | Champion | Bosch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotter | B5ES | N5 | W5DC |
| Standard | B7ES | N3 | W7DC |
| Colder | B9ES | N1 | W9DC |
???? Note: NGK/Denso – higher number = colder plug; Champion – higher number = hotter plug.
???? SPECIAL PLUG FEATURES
- ‘P’ in NGK (e.g., BP7ES): Projected electrode – improves cold starting and efficiency.
- ‘R’ in NGK (e.g., BPR7ES): Resistor type – useful for reducing electrical noise (especially with electronic ignitions).
- Copper Core Plugs: Better heat dissipation, common in modern equivalents.
- Iridium Plugs (e.g., NGK BR7EIX): Longer life, more consistent spark, good upgrade for riders seeking longevity and better ignition.
⚠️ TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT PLUG
- Always check your engine condition—oil-burning or carbon deposits might require a hotter plug.
- Use colder plugs for high-RPM or sustained highway riding.
- Avoid resistor plugs with magnetos or older coils unless specified.
- When using electronic ignition systems, resistor plugs or caps are often required.