HIGHLIGHTS

Unique G3/LC derived competition motorcycle
In fantastic condition
Only two owner’s
Believed restored between 2014-2016
Correct frame and engine numbers

THE APPEAL

The Matchless Motorcycle Company were one of the oldest British manufacturers dating way back to 1899. They first began racing in 1907 and by 1912 were building their own engines.

The G3 model dates back to 1935 and was derived from the 350 Clubman and came in ‘Standard’ form or as a ‘Special’. The ‘Special’ was designed specifically for the Trials enthusiast and had upgraded components such as different front forks, tyres and gearing.

For the 1950 season, the Competition Models were completely redesigned and offered the enthusiastic clubman with the ideal mount for every type of cross country event.

Manufactured in May 1951, this one-off experimental ‘toolroom’ creation had a replacement 347 cc engine installed - originally from a 1950 competition G3/LC model.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

Registered on the 31st December 1951
Online records indicate date of first registration as August 2015
V5 present (in previous owner’s name)
The Vintage Motor Cycle Club manufacture date statement
A.J.S. & Matchless O.C. dating certificate from 2007
Age-related registration number issued in 2007
Parts invoices from 2014-2016
Clutch assembly notes and diagrams
Matchless decals
Not been MOT’d (exempt)
Historic tax status is on Sorn

Although we don’t have access to a comprehensive history file, it appears that both the first and second recorded owner’s of this amazing bike have restored, rejuvenated and maintained it to an impressive level during it’s lifetime.

THE CONDITION

Great cosmetic condition with a pleasing degree of patina
Excellent painted rigid frame
Original tank with slightly crazed paintwork
Single Smiths rev-counter
Competition handlebars
Correct frame and engine Identification stamps
Perfect single saddle
Side-mounted storage box
Nice chrome exhaust
Very good chrome wheels
Avon Speedmaster tyres with plenty of tread (21” x 3.00 front / 19” x 4.00 rear)

THE MECHANICS

Clean and detailed alloy engine and components
347 cc OHV four-stroke single
Amal carburettor with short ram pipe
Magneto ignition
Burman 4-speed gearbox
6-volt electrics
Telescopic front forks
The vendor assures us that this bike starts, runs and handles well
Due to recent low miles, some basic servicing may be advisable

The standard 1950 G3/LC engine specification offered a 69mm bore and 93mm stroke, a 1” Amal carburettor, plenty of low-speed torque producing around 16 hp, with a top speed of 80 mph.

Unfortunately we don’t know the exact specifications of this particular engine, but we imagine that further investigations by Matchless experts may prove fruitful.

SUMMARY

This unique and indeed rare ’50’s British motorcycle looks the business from every angle and has clearly been built to perform.

It’s competition credentials and potential upgrades by Matchless employees, make this historic machine a highly individual, interesting and collectable proposition.

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