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Matchless G80S 500cc

Matchless G80S 500cc

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Matchless G80S 500ccMatchless G80S 500ccMatchless G80S 500cc
Lot number 214
Hammer value £3,000
Description Matchless G80S 500cc
Registration OWE 160
Year 1952
Colour Black
Engine size 498 cc
Chassis No. 82812
Engine No. 52/G80S/20828

The post-war range of AJS and Matchless heavyweight singles was announced in June 1945 by Associated Motorcycles and initially comprised rigid framed models bearing a striking resemblance to the machines that had been produced under the Matchless brand for service in World War Two.

These models were available in 350cc and 500cc, badged as either a Matchless or an AJS, and gained a swing arm frame from 1949 onwards, the ‘S’ designation indicating the adoption of the sprung rear frame. This was a cunning design that allowed the sprung rear end to be bolted to what was really the older front rigid frame, and for a number of years the sprung framed ‘S’ model was sold alongside the rigid frame model.

The initial ‘candlestick’ thin rear shock absorbers were replaced with thicker units post-1950 and these came to be called ‘jampots’; hence why AJS and Matchless single cylinder machines from this era are referred to as ‘jampot singles’.

The 1952 Matchless G80S offered here is one of these ‘jampot singles’. Recently treated to a substantial refurbishment with excellent mechanicals and many stainless steel parts fitted, it is said run and ride beautifully but could be further improved with some attention to the paintwork.

It comes with a V5C bearing its distinctive Sheffield registration number OWE 160 which is transferable. While the 350cc model comes to auction fairly often, the larger 500cc version is more rarely seen and this presents an opportunity to obtain one of these bigger machines at a very sensible guide price.

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