• Great looking classic trials bike

• Competition upgrades

• Little use

• Perfect for a host of pre-’65 events

The Matchless Motorcycle Company were one of the oldest British manufacturers dating way back to 1899. They first began racing in 1907 and by 1912 were building their own engines.

Matchless purchased AJS Motorcycles in 1931, and so followed the tandem production of these two great machines. In 1938 Associated Motor Cycles was formed as the umbrella company for Matchless, AJS, Sunbeam, James Motorcycles and others. AMC eventually folded in 1966 and the last of the Matchless bikes were sold in 1967.

The G3 model dates back to 1935 and was derived from the 350 Clubman and came in ‘Standard’ form or as a ‘Special’. The ‘Special’ was designed specifically for the Trials enthusiast and had upgraded components such as different front forks, tyres and gearing. 

We do not have any significant history on this particular G3, but according to the V5 we can see that it was manufactured in 1959 and was first registered on the 1st May 2004. It lived in the Stockton on Tees area prior to being purchased by B & S Motorcycles, Nottingham, in June 2010. The current owner then bought it from B & S Motorcycles on the 17th December 2016. 

Having owned other trials bikes purchased from B & S Motorcylcles, we can make an educated guess that this great looking Matchless was delivered to the current owner pretty much as we see it now. We are not sure, however, if it was originally a Matchless trials model G3/L (lightweight) or G3C (competition) for instance, but it does appear to be in competent trials trim. We concede to your better judgement… 

Sadly the owner has recently passed away and so this bike is being sold by his family.

The up to date V5 is present along with three paper MOT’s from 2009-2011. The 2009 copy indicates a mileage of 1,305 miles, and looking online, we can see five Passes going back to 2006 when 13,505 miles were recorded!.

The exempt tax has been recently renewed and runs until the 1st November 2022 and there are also a few accompanying specification notes from the owner. 

 

This stunning classic trials machine is in fantastic condition and really looks the business from top to bottom. There are some cosmetic signs of use particularly on the lower frame but otherwise the entire bike is extremely presentable. 

It is obvious that this G3 has been restored not too long ago (although we don’t know when) and judging by the abundance of alloy competition components fitted, it is clear that a lot of time and effort has been applied to retaining or creating a serious lightweight machine.

The alloy headstock, handlebars, levers and painted fuel tank are very good and the minimal foam topped alloy seat is fine. White plastic mudguards are attached, and the wheels and spokes are good with just a few scuffs to the wheel rims. The trials tyres look almost new.

There are no obvious sins of oil leaks and so the alloy engine, gearbox and ancillaries are very clean and tidy.

The Matchless 347cc OHV four-stroke single is a well proven rugged and reliable bit of kit and in this case is further enhanced by a modern Lucas racing magneto and, according to the owners notes, has a high top geared four-speed box suitable for “road” trials. Also looking at his notes, the owner states that this a 1964 engine. The serial number 55 16MS 24267, however, could suggest a 1955 Special?. We’re not sure.

Teledraulic front forks sit up front along with swing-arm rear suspension, offering adjustable Gas shocks and springs. These look almost new. A custom made alloy oil tank features and an alloy exhaust silencer sits up high in true off-road fashion.    

The vendor reports that this G3 fires up and runs well although it hasn’t been ridden for about a year. Naturally, in this instance, it may now require a good going over and some preparation before riding or competing.

This true British classic motorcycle in trials guise really looks the part and has clearly been built to perform. It’s lightweight competition components and sporting credentials make it the perfect choice for a wide range of pre-’65 trials events. 

Alternatively, of course, you may wish to further enhance it’s good looks with a bit of extra TLC and simply enjoy some quality tinkering time in the garage. Either way, this fantastic Matchless G3 should put a smile on your face and offer a good investment.