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LOT 511

1936 Matchless 982cc Model X Registration no. JY 9236 Frame no. 514 Engine no. 37/X 5050

Sold for £31,050 inc. premium
Lot 511

1936 Matchless 982cc Model X
Registration no. JY 9236 Frame no. 514 Engine no. 37/X 5050

1936 Matchless 982cc Model X
Registration no. JY 9236
Frame no. 514
Engine no. 37/X 5050

• Extensively restored in the 1980s
• Off the road since 2007
• Requires re-commissioning

Founded by the Collier family in Plumstead, South London, Matchless built its first motorcycle in 1902, soon gaining worldwide recognition when a JAP-engined model ridden by Charlie Collier won the single-cylinder class of the first ever Isle of Man TT race in 1907. Further wins TT followed in 1909 and 1910, cementing the marque's reputation for sporting prowess. As well as sporting singles, Matchless offered v-twin sidecar tugs from its earliest days and from 1914 concentrating exclusively on this type of machine. Production of these MAG-engined models resumed after The Great War and continued into the 1920s despite the presence of a more modern Matchless-engined rival in the range. Designated 'X/2' on its launch in 1925, this 982cc sidevalve v-twin would remain in production until the outbreak of WW2, its engine being supplied to Brough Superior for use in the SS80 from 1935 onwards. While lesser models came and went, the stately Model X remained a fixture of the range, progressively updated, until 1940. The most significant upgrades along the way were introduced for 1937 when the Model X adopted a shorter frame, restyled fuel tank and front-mounted magneto.

This Model X was extensively restored over the period 1982-1984. Works undertaken then included a crankshaft rebuild by Alpha Bearings; magneto and dynamo overhaul by Dave Lindsley; frame stove enamelled and brightwork re-plated by Stallwood Metal Finishers; forks rebuilt by Percival Sons & Webb; and fuel tank repaired by Danny Woodward. Wheel components were supplied by Rightwheel Co and the exhaust system came from Armours. Later cylinder barrels have been fitted to improve cooling, and the rear light is now a safer twin-filament unit (original lamp available).

We are advised by the private vendor that the machine was running well when laid up in 2007, though there is now no spark. Offered in need or re-commissioning and sold strictly as viewed, the machine comes with restoration invoices and a V5C registration certificate.

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.

Saleroom notices

The machine was registered October 1936 and is a 1937 type model.

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

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