Description
This motorcycle is Lot 211 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 211
c. 1931 Matchless 1, 000cc Model X/ 3
Registration no. not registered (see text)
Frame no. 1761
Engine no. X3 2775
Founded by the Collier family in Plumstead, South London, Matchless built its first motorcycle in 1902, soon gaining worldwide recognition when a JAP-engined model ridden by Charlie Collier won the single-cylinder class of the first ever Isle of Man TT race in 1907. Further wins TT followed in 1909 and 1910, cementing the marque's reputation for sporting prowess. As well as sporting singles, Matchless offered v-twin 'sidecar tugs' from its earliest days and from 1914 concentrated exclusively on this type of machine. Production of these MAG-engined models resumed after The Great War and continued into the 1920s despite the presence of a more modern Matchless-engined rival in the range. Designated 'X/ 2' on its launch in 1925, the 982cc sidevalve v-twin from Matchless would remain in production until the outbreak of WW2, its engine being supplied to Brough Superior for use in the SS80 from 1935 onwards. While lesser models came and went, the stately Model X remained a fixture of the range, progressively updated, until 1940. This Matchless belonged to the current vendor's late grandfather. Offered for restoration, nothing is known about the history of this machine and its mechanical condition, thus is sold strictly as viewed. There are no documents offered with this lot. It should be noted that the registration 'CN 8962' is not recorded in the DVLA/ HPI database; therefore the machine is offered unregistered and prospective bidders should satisfy themselves to the validity of the registration number. A spare petrol tank is included.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
