Description
This motorcycle is Lot 81 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on April 25th & 26th, please see the Bonhams Motorcycles Website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 94 are to be sold from 14:30 on Saturday 25th April 2026.
Lots 201 - 353 are to be sold from 11:30am on Sunday 26th April 2026.
Public Viewing:
Available 25th & 26th April 2026 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Staffordshire County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
The Connoisseurs Collection, Part II
** c. 1955 Matchless 500cc G45 Racing Motorcycle**
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. none visible
Engine no. none visible
** Gearbox no. 7R D 52 TT**
** The Lot is from outside the UK. Shippio Ltd must automatically uplift this Lot after the auction, complete all post sale import or export customs administration, and store this Lot until it is customs cleared. A compulsory fee of £350 + VAT will be added to the buyer's invoice for this. This Lot cannot be collected from the auction venue by the purchaser or any alternative transporter.
If the Lot is to stay in the UK or is not exported within 90 days of sale, Import VAT at 5% on the hammer price is payable.**
The prototype of what would become the G45 first appeared at the '51 Manx Grand Prix ridden by Robin Sherry, eventually finishing 4th after a promising debut. In fact, the G45 was not an entirely new design but essentially a hybrid comprised of AJS 7R-based cycle parts and a tuned Matchless G9 roadster engine equipped with a new aluminium-alloy cylinder barrel and 'head.
In 1952 the prototype G45 garnered much valuable publicity, and not a little controversy, when Derek Farrant won the Senior Manx Grand Prix after leading from start to finish. Strictly speaking, a works prototype had no business in an event for amateurs riding over-the-counter machines, but AMC quickly announced that a production G45 would be available for 1953. Although still based on that of the G9, the production version's engine incorporated a different camshaft and breathed via a pair of Amal GP carburettors. Claimed power output was 48bhp, increasing on later models to 54 horsepower. Apart from revised valve gear and the eventual adoption of a forged crankshaft, the G45 changed little over the course of its life. Production ceased in 1957 after around 80 machines had been built, of which it is believed approximately half survive today.
This G45 appears to be an older restoration (there is paint crazing to the oil tank and frame). Notable features include twin Amal carburettors; a Lucas competition magneto; and a Smiths 9, 000rpm tachometer (the drive cable is missing).
Offered without documents. Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/ or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Key not required
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.
