Description
This motorcycle is Lot 280 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 280
1964 Matchless 348cc G3C Trials
Registration no. 2767 D
Frame no. 10855
Engine no. G3/ 4824 (see text)
Using models based on the wartime Matchless G3 military machine, Associated Motor Cycles dominated the UK trials scene in the years immediately after WW2. Stars such as Hugh Viney and Gordon Jackson riding for AJS, and Artie Ratcliffe and Ted Usher for Matchless won countless national events while clubmen everywhere favoured the Plumstead marques' products more than those of any of their rivals. Important steps in the evolution of AMC's trials models included revised steering geometry, an alloy cylinder barrel and 'head, and a lightweight all-welded frame. Introduced for the 1954 season, the latter remained rigid at the rear despite evidence that a 'springer' worked better. In the event, AMC's first attempt at a sprung frame was not an unqualified success, but the much-revised chassis of 1958 worked much better and was further improved by a switch to shorter rear dampers in 1961. And although a 500cc model was offered until the early 1950s, the works boys always favoured the milder and more easily managed 350, as did the vast majority of customers.
The current owner purchased this G3C Trials some 10 years ago, since when it has not been used. Recommissioning will be required before further use. It should be noted that the engine number's year prefix has been removed and that the 'G3' prefix is a later addition. The frame number appears correct. Accompanying documentation consists of the original green logbook and a V5C document.
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.
