Highlights
- Stunning restored Matchless
- First production year of the G80S
- Low mileage refreshed 500cc
- Only 5 previous owners
- True British competition icon
The Appeal
The Matchless Motorcycle Company were one of the oldest British manufacturers dating way back to 1899. In the right hands, the Matchless competition machines of the era were a formidable force either in 350cc or 500cc guise.
This handsome 500cc G80S was restored during 2017/18 to a very high standard at a cost of around £2,500 in parts alone, and still looks the business. Accompanying paperwork supports some of the new and reconditioned parts utilised, and judging by the quality of the paintwork and fitting’s, the work was skilfully carried out.
Mechanically speaking, the recorded mileage indicates just 04,044 miles, and although unconfirmed, is probably correct following the engine refresh, also in 2017/18.
Regularly ridden, this proper 50’s British motorcycle is in great condition, sounds spot-on and is ready to enjoy. In fact, during the photo-shoot, the owner took the bike for a spin around the ‘paddock’ and up the hill, and we can confirm, it did indeed sound healthy and performed well.
The History and Paperwork
- Manufactured in 1953
- Early history is currently unknown
- Registered in the UK on the 7th July 1980
- Owner acquired the bike in December 2021
- V5 present
- Non-transferrable registration
- A selection of parts invoices
- No current MOT (exempt)
- Historic tax status is on Sorn
- Owner is happy to deliver to Southampton FOC
The Condition
- Restored to an impressive level
- Professionally painted black duplex frame
- Glossy fuel tank with perfect Matchless decals
- Nice period Smiths speedometer
- Great chrome handlebars, levers and grips
- Befitting rear light and reflector
- Decent new saddle
- One small ding to the oil tank
- Shining chrome exhaust
- Centre stand fitted in addition to existing side stand
- Good chrome rims and spokes
- Mitas/Ensign trials tyres with plenty of tread
The Mechanics
- Reliable 498cc, single cylinder, four stroke, pushrod
- Recent oil filter clean and fresh engine oil
- Amal carburettor
- 4-speed transmission
- 6-volt electrics
- Easy kick-start
- Some alloy components would benefit from a clean up
- Teledraulic forks
- G80 ’S’ spec. swing-arm suspension with ‘jampot’ shocks
During restoration new and reconditioned parts included:
- New piston rings and valves
- New clutch
- Reconditioned Lucas Magneto
- Jampots reconditioned
- Relined brake shoes
- New tyres and inner tubes
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:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ 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.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com
