Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
26th Mar, 2025 9:00
1955 Matchless G3LC Trials
No Reserve
Registration No: HSJ 774
Frame No: 5235C
MOT: Exempt
Classic 1950s British Trials bike
Supplied with a dating letter
Road registered with a current V5C
Matchless is one of the oldest marques of British motorcycles, manufactured in Plumstead, London, between 1899 and 1966. A wide range of models was produced under the Matchless name, ranging from small two-strokes to 750cc four-stroke twins. The marque had a long history of racing success with a Matchless ridden by Charlie Collier winning the first single-cylinder race in the first Isle of Man TT in 1907. An amalgamation with AJS in 1931 formed Associated Motor Cycles which continued until the group's closure in the mid-60s. In the 1950s Trials riding was a very popular sport with competitors using big British four-stroke singles, Matchless 350 and 500 models were favoured for their relatively lightweight and reliability.
This authentically presented bike, being offered at no reserve, is from a deceased estate. Owned and ridden by its enthusiast owner in classic events over recent years, the engine number 55 G3L 1717C suggests it is a competition model with the V5C showing its capacity as being 500cc. The frame number is not visible under a good layer of paint but is stated as being 5235C, with a dating letter from 'Classic Services' saying it was made in 1955. Stood for a while, it will need recommissioning before use but will make an excellent mount for competing in pre-'65 Trials or taking part in Vintage runs and rallies. It comes supplied with a current V5C and the aforementioned dating letter.
