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.

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.

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