Description
20th Jul, 2024 10:00
The July 2024 Auction
1953 AJS Model 16
No Reserve - Barn find restoration project
Buyer's premium: 15. 00%
Lot details
Registration: HAS 874
Frame: 91112
Engine: 53/ 16MS17515
MOT: Exempt
349cc 4-stroke single
4-speed gearbox
Registered as Historic Vehicle
Offered as part of deceased estate
Complete bike but requires full restoration
The rigid framed AJS Model 16M 350cc single was developed in 1945 from the military Matchless G3/ L World War II motorcycle. Well proven in war service, the 350cc single remained in production selling large numbers to the civilian market well into the 1960s. Simple and practical, the Model 16 needed minimal maintenance and was very economical - ideal during petrol rationing. The company also produced an almost identical motorcycle under the Matchless name as the Matchless G3L. The only difference between the two was that the Matchless carried a magneto at the rear of the cylinder barrel, whereas the AJS magneto was at the front. In 1953, the Model 16M was modernised with a dual seat replacing the saddle and rear pillion seat. In 1956 the Burman gearbox was replaced with a new four speed unit of AMC's own design and in 1957 further improvements included replacement of the outdated generator with a crankshaft mounted Lucas alternator. The leaky pressed-steel primary drive cover was replaced with an alloy casing.
Neither AJS or Matchless opted for plunger type rear springing, and the Model 16 retained a rigid rear frame until 1949, when pivoted rear suspension controlled by hydraulically dampened spring units designed and made by Matchless became available. The difference was indicated by the S (for springer) designation.
This bike has come as part of a deceased estate and comes with V5, various AJS manuals and some previous MOTs. It appears to be a complete bike but obviously requires a full restoration.
