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| Lot number | 215 |
|---|---|
| Hammer value | £5,250 |
| Description | Metisse Matchless |
| Registration | N/A |
| Year | c.1990 |
| Colour | Blue |
| Engine size | 500 cc |
| Chassis No. | MRD 96092 |
Brothers Derek and Don Rickman believed that there were good frames and good engines but the two were rarely put together. In the late 1950s the brothers developed a lightweight nickel-plate frame to fit a variety of engines to create very competitive off-road machines. They called it the Metisse, a French derivation of Mongrel – they certainly had a sense of humour.
Later known for their Japanese-powered road-racing machines, they eventually stopped making frames in 1975, selling the rights to Pat French who ran MRD (Model, Replica and Design Ltd). He continued to supply frames, such as the one offered here, finally selling the license on again in 1999.
This c.1990 machine is from the MRD era and has been built with a Matchless G80 CS engine. Rebuilt with a Carillo con rod, Alpha big-end and JP Piston it has done little work since completion. The AMC Matchless gearbox (similar to a Norton unit) has a Norton International bottom gear ratio mated to a late type clutch. Ceriani 35mm forks, AJS Stormer wheels and a replica Royal Enfield chain case complete the package.
This machine has been beautifully prepared and is ready for action. Bidders are advised that it is not road registered.
