The Matchless G3 is unassumingly one of the most historically important motorcycles in existence, its significance due in no small part to the role it played in World War Two.
It was developed quickly in 1939 for use in the war, with over 80,000 of them manufactured during the conflict, the vast majority the post-1941 G3L (or Lightweight) model.
From 1942, following the bombing of the Triumph factory in Coventry, it became the most prolific motorbike in the UK for a while.
Post-war, and with manufacturing reliant on strong exports and minimal costs, the G3L was kept in production as a civilian bike, running almost unchanged until 1960. All civvy models were black and the model
This one has spent most of its life in private collections both in the USA and the UK, and has been repatriated since 2017.
The Matchless was imported from California in 2017 having spent much of its life in a private collection.
The vendor is also a collector and has had the vehicle in private storage for the past five years, but is now downsizing to create more storage space.
The bike was brought to the UK from California in its current condition in 2017 and has been carefully stored as part of a private collection since. The import papers and duties are paid but it is not yet UK registered.QPN2mj16fHFRA0v4ZmcuaTG6XHxkYodMsh3nOULC.jpeg992.84 KB
THE CONDITION
Original, seemingly unrestored condition
Excellent throughout
Matching numbers
Minor pitting to chrome
The Matchless doesn’t appear to have been restored and the vendor believes its mileage could well be genuine.
It is in original order throughout and is generally in superb order, the only minor detraction being some very slight pitting to the chrome on the handlebars.
The Matchless is in running order and starts well but it hasn’t been used (other than run up) in many years so some careful titivation will be required, as well as the correct UK registration (a straightforward process) before it’s used on the road.
This is a wonderful example of one of the bikes that truly mobilised Britain during WW2 and beyond.
Historically significant and in excellent order throughout, it’s a fabulous example and a true collectors’ piece.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
