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LOT 481

Rickman Métisse-Matchless 496cc G50 Replica Racing Motorcycle Registration no. not registered Frame no. 5S Engine no. G50 102 R

Sold for £8,050 inc. premium
Lot 481

Rickman Métisse-Matchless 496cc G50 Replica Racing Motorcycle
Registration no. not registered Frame no. 5S Engine no. G50 102 R

Rickman Métisse-Matchless 496cc G50 Replica Racing Motorcycle
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 5S
Engine no. G50 102 R

The disappointing performance of the Matchless G45 twin-cylinder racer prompted Associated Motor Cycles to develop an over-bored version of the firm's successful AJS 7R 350 single as a contender for the 500 class. Using cycle parts virtually identical to the 7R, the prototype Matchless G50 first ran in 1958, production versions becoming available the following year. With a claimed power output of over 50bhp, the G50 should have been a winner, but it was not until after manufacture ceased in 1963 that tuner/entrants in Britain and the USA began to exploit the model's full potential. Frame and suspension developments - most notably by Tom Arter and Colin Seeley - kept the G50 competitive into the 'Japanese era', and the model continues to be a mainstay of classic racing's 500 class today, thanks in no small part to the availability of faithful replicas of the original.

Another popular in-period 'upgrade' was the Rickman frame, a replica of which is fitted to this machine, while the engine too is a replica. The fairing carries scrutineering stickers from events including the Manx Grand Prix and CRMC meetings. Its owner, Dave Dock, is recorded in the IOMTT Database as competing on a 'G50 Rickman' in the MGP Classic Senior race throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s, the last occasion being in 2005. However, it is not known if this is the same machine. Its mechanical condition is not known.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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  • 28 April 2001, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
  • 27 April 2019, 09:00 - 18:00 BST

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