Highlights

Stunning restored Matchless
First production year of the G80S
Low mileage refreshed 500cc
Only 5 previous owners
True British competition icon

The Appeal

The Matchless Motorcycle Company were one of the oldest British manufacturers dating way back to 1899. In the right hands, the Matchless competition machines of the era were a formidable force either in 350cc or 500cc guise.

This handsome 500cc G80S was restored during 2017/18 to a very high standard at a cost of around £2,500 in parts alone, and still looks the business. Accompanying paperwork supports some of the new and reconditioned parts utilised, and judging by the quality of the paintwork and fitting’s, the work was skilfully carried out.

Mechanically speaking, the recorded mileage indicates just 04,044 miles, and although unconfirmed, is probably correct following the engine refresh, also in 2017/18.

Regularly ridden, this proper 50’s British motorcycle is in great condition, sounds spot-on and is ready to enjoy. In fact, during the photo-shoot, the owner took the bike for a spin around the ‘paddock’ and up the hill, and we can confirm, it did indeed sound healthy and performed well.

The History and Paperwork

Manufactured in 1953
Early history is currently unknown
Registered in the UK on the 7th July 1980
Owner acquired the bike in December 2021
V5 present
Non-transferrable registration
A selection of parts invoices
No current MOT (exempt)
Historic tax status is on Sorn
Owner is happy to deliver to Southampton FOC

The Condition

Restored to an impressive level
Professionally painted black duplex frame
Glossy fuel tank with perfect Matchless decals
Nice period Smiths speedometer
Great chrome handlebars, levers and grips
Befitting rear light and reflector
Decent new saddle
One small ding to the oil tank
Shining chrome exhaust
Centre stand fitted in addition to existing side stand
Good chrome rims and spokes
Mitas/Ensign trials tyres with plenty of tread

The Mechanics

Reliable 498cc, single cylinder, four stroke, pushrod
Recent oil filter clean and fresh engine oil
Amal carburettor
4-speed transmission
6-volt electrics
Easy kick-start
Some alloy components would benefit from a clean up
Teledraulic forks
G80 ’S’ spec. swing-arm suspension with ‘jampot’ shocks

During restoration new and reconditioned parts included:

New piston rings and valves
New clutch
Reconditioned Lucas Magneto
Jampots reconditioned
Relined brake shoes
New tyres and inner tubes

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]