1955 Matchless G9 500
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HIGHLIGHTS
- Stunning restored Matchless
- U.K. bike with original registration
- Matching frame and engine numbers
- Just 3 previous owner’s since 1955
- Extremely low mileage
THE APPEAL
The Matchless Motorcycle Company were one of the oldest British manufacturers dating way back to 1899. Later, under the AMC umbrella, the Matchless G9 and AJS counterpart, the Model 20, were introduced to the public at the Earls Court Motorcycle Show in 1948.
The 500 twin was quite innovative, and in competition form, proved successful in the hands of the works riders, and indeed inspired the development of the highly tuned and modified G45 race bike which first appeared at the Manx Grand Prix in 1951.
This handsome G9 touring twin was beautifully restored some time ago and still looks great. There are no details of the restoration but looking at the quality of the paintwork and fitting’s, it was skilfully carried out. Mechanically speaking, the recorded mileage indicates an (unconfirmed) engine rebuild which may have been undertaken around 2009.
This great British ’50’s motorcycle has everything going for it.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- U.K. bike registered on the 8th June 1955
- Original ‘Buff’ logbook present
- V5 present (in previous owner’s name)
- Non-transferrable registration
- Early Matchless Super Clubman Spares List
- A paper MOT from 2010
- 8 tax discs from 2001-2014
- No current MOT (exempt)
- Historic tax status is on Sorn
We don’t have access to a comprehensive history file but the original log book suggests that this Matchless was initially sold by S.A. Coles Ltd in Leyton, London and remained in London with the first owner until moving north to Barnsley, and latterly, Chesterfield in 2013.
Online MOT records reveal three ‘Pass’ MOT’s with the first being in 2009 with 53 recorded miles, and the last in 2012, at 654 miles, so just 114 miles ago.
Online MOT records reveal three ‘Pass’ MOT’s with the first being in 2009 with 53 recorded miles, and the last in 2012, at 654 miles, so just 114 miles ago.
THE CONDITION
- Restored to an impressive level
- Excellent black and maroon factory colour combination
- Shining fuel tank with Matchless emblems
- Nice Smiths speedometer and Lucas Ammeter
- Undamaged Lucas headlight and rear light
- Fantastic ‘torpedo’ side lights
- Decent handlebars, levers and grips
- Correct frame and engine Identification stamps
- Comfortable twin saddle
- A few chips to the front mudguard
- A few decals worn away
- Sound looking chrome exhausts
- Superb 19” chrome wheels and Maroon paint
- Avon Speedmaster Mk II tyres with plenty of tread
THE MECHANICS
- 500 cc OHV parallel twin with a reputed top speed of 85 mph
- Factory compression ratio of 7.7:1
- Burman 4-speed gearbox
- Amal Carburettor
- Some alloy components would benefit from a clean up
- 6-volt electrics
- Lucas K2F Magneto ignition
- Telescopic front forks / swing arm rear suspension
- Standard looking drum brakes
- The vendor assures us that this bike starts and runs with good compression
- Due to recent low miles, some basic servicing is advised
SUMMARY
Looking great from every angle, this low mileage Matchless should perform reliably, and with some weekend tinkering and polishing, will make a wonderful shining example of British engineering at it’s best.
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:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ 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.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1955
- Make Matchless
- Model G9
- Colour Multicolour
- Odometer 768 Miles
- Engine size 500
Auction Details
- Seller Type Trade
- Town Guildford
- Location Surrey
- Country United Kingdom
5
bids
from 4
bidders
- eaque.1•••• £1,800 23/09/23
- Holtbox £1,500 23/09/23
- Ant2000 £1,000 23/09/23
- eaque.1•••• £600 20/09/23
- EddieBu•••• £500 20/09/23
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