Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
1926 Matchless 250
Period Lucas Carbide lighting
Estimate
£2, 200 - £2, 500
Registration No: ON 2567
Frame No: 90
MOT: Exempt
Matchless's 250cc side Valve Model R
Lucas Carbide front and rear lights
Supplied with Buff RF60 and a V5C
Matchless was established in the late 1800s and was one of the first producers of motorcycles in the UK. Unusually, when most manufacturers were based around the Birmingham centre of automotive production, the Matchless factory was in South East London. A wide range of models were produced under the Matchless name between 1899 and 1966, ranging from small two-strokes to 750cc four-stroke twins. After mainly concentrating on big Vee Twins, the 250cc Model R was introduced in the mid 1920s, becoming the company's first bike to feature Matchless's trademark black petrol tank with gold pinstripping. The marque had a long history of racing success with a Matchless ridden by Charlie Collier winning the first single-cylinder race at the first Isle of Man TT in 1907. An amalgamation with AJS in 1931 formed Associated Motor Cycles, which continued until the group's closure in the mid-60s.
This rarely seen Model R is from a deceased estate, so unfortunately, not much is known of its history. The vendor bought it a few years ago to add to his small collection of 1920s motorcycles. It looks to be an older restoration keeping a good degree of originality, including period Lucas Carbide front and rear lights and reverse pull levers. Not run for a while, it will need recommissioning before use and will be supplied with a continuation Buff Log Book from 1957 and a current V5C.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
