1959 Matchless G3 Trials
auctions.single.seller.popular
auctions.single.seller.view-count
auctions.single.seller.images
Highlights
• Great looking classic trials bike
• Competition upgrades
• Little use
• Perfect for a host of pre-’65 events
The Background
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.
Matchless purchased AJS Motorcycles in 1931, and so followed the tandem production of these two great machines. In 1938 Associated Motor Cycles was formed as the umbrella company for Matchless, AJS, Sunbeam, James Motorcycles and others. AMC eventually folded in 1966 and the last of the Matchless bikes were sold in 1967.
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.
The History
We do not have any significant history on this particular G3, but according to the V5 we can see that it was manufactured in 1959 and was first registered on the 1st May 2004. It lived in the Stockton on Tees area prior to being purchased by B & S Motorcycles, Nottingham, in June 2010. The current owner then bought it from B & S Motorcycles on the 17th December 2016.
Having owned other trials bikes purchased from B & S Motorcylcles, we can make an educated guess that this great looking Matchless was delivered to the current owner pretty much as we see it now. We are not sure, however, if it was originally a Matchless trials model G3/L (lightweight) or G3C (competition) for instance, but it does appear to be in competent trials trim. We concede to your better judgement…
Sadly the owner has recently passed away and so this bike is being sold by his family.
The Paperwork
The up to date V5 is present along with three paper MOT’s from 2009-2011. The 2009 copy indicates a mileage of 1,305 miles, and looking online, we can see five Passes going back to 2006 when 13,505 miles were recorded!.
The exempt tax has been recently renewed and runs until the 1st November 2022 and there are also a few accompanying specification notes from the owner.
The Condition
This stunning classic trials machine is in fantastic condition and really looks the business from top to bottom. There are some cosmetic signs of use particularly on the lower frame but otherwise the entire bike is extremely presentable.
It is obvious that this G3 has been restored not too long ago (although we don’t know when) and judging by the abundance of alloy competition components fitted, it is clear that a lot of time and effort has been applied to retaining or creating a serious lightweight machine.
The alloy headstock, handlebars, levers and painted fuel tank are very good and the minimal foam topped alloy seat is fine. White plastic mudguards are attached, and the wheels and spokes are good with just a few scuffs to the wheel rims. The trials tyres look almost new.
There are no obvious sins of oil leaks and so the alloy engine, gearbox and ancillaries are very clean and tidy.
The Mechanics
The Matchless 347cc OHV four-stroke single is a well proven rugged and reliable bit of kit and in this case is further enhanced by a modern Lucas racing magneto and, according to the owners notes, has a high top geared four-speed box suitable for “road” trials. Also looking at his notes, the owner states that this a 1964 engine. The serial number 55 16MS 24267, however, could suggest a 1955 Special?. We’re not sure.
Teledraulic front forks sit up front along with swing-arm rear suspension, offering adjustable Gas shocks and springs. These look almost new. A custom made alloy oil tank features and an alloy exhaust silencer sits up high in true off-road fashion.
The vendor reports that this G3 fires up and runs well although it hasn’t been ridden for about a year. Naturally, in this instance, it may now require a good going over and some preparation before riding or competing.
The Appeal
This true British classic motorcycle in trials guise really looks the part and has clearly been built to perform. It’s lightweight competition components and sporting credentials make it the perfect choice for a wide range of pre-’65 trials events.
Alternatively, of course, you may wish to further enhance it’s good looks with a bit of extra TLC and simply enjoy some quality tinkering time in the garage. Either way, this fantastic Matchless G3 should put a smile on your face and offer a good investment.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1959
- Make Matchless
- Model G3 Trials Bike
- Colour Black
- Odometer 0
- Engine size 350
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Stubbington
- Location Hampshire
- Country United Kingdom
17
bids
- Ni•••• £6,250 11/01/22
- An•••• £5,900 11/01/22
- do•••• £5,000 11/01/22
- Ni•••• £4,750 11/01/22
- Bu•••• £4,650 11/01/22
- do•••• £4,550 11/01/22
- Bu•••• £4,450 10/01/22
- do•••• £4,350 10/01/22
- sa•••• £4,000 05/01/22
- Ru•••• £3,900 05/01/22
The Gallery
About Max Bids
The max bid process allows you to bid without any hassle.
Enter your maximum bid and we will then bid on your behalf to ensure you're the highest bidder - just enough to keep you in the lead and only up until your maximum.
Anti-sniping
Car & Classic prevent auction snipers from bidding in the last seconds to win an auction.
Auctions are extended by 3 minutes if anyone bids within the last 2 minutes to allow other bidders to react and counter-bid.
Auto-bidding increments
- If your maximum bid is equal to or below the reserve price, your maximum bid will be applied in full if you are the highest bidder.
- If you are the highest bidder and place a maximum bid above the reserve, we will automatically put in the reserve as your first bid.
-
- Once the reserve has been met, Car & Classic will make sure you are the highest bidder using only the bidding increments stated below.
- We will keep you in the lead up until your maximum bid OR the increment closest to your maximum bid, providing your maximum bid is enough to cover the increment value.
| Bid Amount | Increment |
|---|---|
| £0 to £9,999 | £100.00 |
| £10,000 to £49,999 | £250.00 |
| £50,000 to £99,999 | £500.00 |
| £100,000 + | £1,000.00 |
Automatically outbid immediately
When you place a max bid and are outbid immediately that means that another bidder has placed a max bid limit which is higher than yours.
You can bid again and we will use our automatic bid system to try and get you as the highest bidder.
Matching max bids
When there are two max bids of the same value, the one placed first remains the lead bidder.
Pre-authorisation
We may hold a pre-authorisation charge on your card until the end of the auction when the hold will be cancelled. If you win, we'll take a security deposit which counts towards the payment for the vehicle and isn't any extra cost to you.
What are pre-bids?
A pre-bid means you're able to place a bid before the official start of the auction.
You will be notified whether or not you are the highest bidder when the auction starts.
Problem with your bid
Bids are contractually binding. To help protect you, we have some rules in place if we think it's been mistyped. Please check and amend what you have entered.