1961 AJS 350cc Model 16 Frame no. A44976 Engine no. 61/16 39908 (see text)

1961 AJS 350cc Model 16 Registration no. not registered Frame no. A44976 Engine no. 61/16 39908 (see text) Using models based on the wartime Matchless G3 military machine, Associated Motor Cycles dominated the UK trials scene in the years immediately after WW2. Stars such as Hugh Viney and Gordon Jackson riding for AJS, and Artie Ratcliffe and Ted Usher for Matchless won countless national events while clubmen everywhere favoured the Plumstead marques' products more than those of any of their rivals. Important steps in the evolution of AMC's trials models included revised steering geometry, an alloy cylinder barrel and 'head, and a lightweight all-welded frame. Introduced for the 1954 season, the latter remained rigid at the rear despite evidence that a 'springer' worked better. In the event, AMC's first attempt at a sprung frame was not an unqualified success, but the much-revised chassis of 1958 worked much better and was further improved by a switch to shorter rear dampers in 1961. And although a 500cc model was offered until the early 1950s, the works boys always favoured the milder and more easily managed 350, as did the vast majority of customers. This Model 16 was purchased by the current vendor over 15 years ago and has been stored since, displaying 7,350 miles to the odometer, the engine turns over but will require recommissioning/restoration before returning to the road and is sold strictly as viewed. It should be noted the engine number has been restamped. Offered without documents. Key not required Footnotes: All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. REQUEST A TRANSPORT QUOTE Please click the link to request a transport quote from our recommended transport company, Moving Motorcycles. To request a UK or European shipping quote - Moving Motorcycles To request an International shipping quote - Shippio Saleroom notices: The AJS Matchless Owners Club kindly advise, the frame number is a non-factory re-stamp and relates to a 1956 Matchless opposed to 1960 AJS. However, as the machine features a twin downtube frame, the frame cannot possibly date from 1956. Accordingly, the machine is sold strictly as viewed and prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the condition, origins, suitability and composition of the machines component parts prior to bidding. Lot to be sold without reserve. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing

Saleroom Notice:
The AJS Matchless Owners Club kindly advise, the frame number is a non-factory re-stamp and relates to a 1956 Matchless opposed to 1960 AJS. However, as the machine features a twin downtube frame, the frame cannot possibly date from 1956. Accordingly, the machine is sold strictly as viewed and prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the condition, origins, suitability and composition of the machines component parts prior to bidding.