Highlights
- Improved Mk4 version of the original Seeley G50
- Seeley provenance to confirm history
- Engine rebuilt by John Cronshaw
- Originally owned by GP racer Derek Woodman
- Will feature at Prescott, Donnington & Aberdare in 2024
- Carefully restored and mostly very original G50
The Appeal
The Matchless G50 was hugely success. But it wasn’t enough to stave off Associated Motor Cycles’ demise in the 1960s. Esteemed sidecar racer Colin Seeley spotted further potential in the 497cc SOHC air cooled single and bought the firm’s racing team.
He quickly set about developing his own frame, which evolved through four versions to the Mk4 of late 1970. With its improved layout the Mk4 continued the success of Seeley’s G50 in the 500cc GP classes.
This one was built in late 1971 and first sold in April 1972. That buyer found it too quick so gave it back. That was good news for this bike - a few weeks later it ended up in the hands of famed racer Derek Woodman. He campaigned it in the 500cc class.
In the intervening years it has been enjoyed and restored, but thankfully remains largely original. The Seeley tank is non-original and the colour has been changed, but otherwise it is as Colin intended. The engine was rebuilt by John Cronshaw, the specialist Matchless G50 engineer.
A letter from Eva Seeley of CSRD confirms the authenticity. This bike continues to be used and enjoyed - it will appear at Prescott, Donnington and Aberdare during 2024 - so is ready to pass on to the lucky buyer.
History and Paperwork
- Entered onto Colin Seeley’s ledger on 7th October 1971
- Originally sold new to Mr K Shepherd on 26th April 1972
- He quickly returned it to Colin Seeley
- It was then resold to Derek Woodman, the GP racer, on 19th May 1972
- One of the rare Mk4 frame which incorporated various improvements over the original
- Chassis number MK4CS198
- Engine rebuilt by John Cronshaw with receipts to confirm
- Will feature at Prescott, Donnington and Aberdare during 2024
- Correspondence with Eva Seeley included
- Typed up history of bike
- Available on display at Moto Corsa premises - The Old Brewery in Gillingham, Dorset
- Various spares available by separate negotiation
- Registered for the road with a V5 in the vendor's name
- Recognised by the DVLA as a historic vehicle
- Able to travel to the continent without an ATA Carnet
The Condition
- Restored and refinished in stylish but non-standard blue
- Fitted with a later Seeley tank
- Mk4 frame with revised layout to improve handling
- Sports ‘35’ decals
- Aluminium stand included
- Beautiful condition across paintwork and fittings
- Very well kept bike in collector-quality condition
The Mechanics
- 496cc SOHC air cooled single tuned by Colin Seeley
- 4spd chain drive gearbox
- Engine rebuilt by Matchless G50 specialist
- Regularly run and displayed
- No reported running or riding issues to advise
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 [email protected]
