1955 AJS Model 20
Engine no. GB26M5 9229

Collectors' Motorcycles and Motorcars at the Barber Museum|10 October 2020, 13:00 CDT|Birmingham, Barber Motorsports Museum

1955 AJS Model 20
Engine no. GB26M5 9229

Albert John Stevens and his three brothers became involved in motorcycles before the turn of the 20th Century. By 1909, they were manufacturing motorcycles under the name AJS. In the industrial Midlands well north of London. The company failed in 1931 and was taken over by Matchless, the two later operating under the name, Associated Motorcycles in Plumstead, a suburb of south-east London. The company's first big postwar splash was with a civilian version of the G3/L in 1946. Both 350 and 500cc singles were available that year. The AJS version of the 500 was named the Model 18. These 500 singles, both AJS and Matchless brands, would be the mainstay of Associated Motorcycles (late-on together with Norton models) from their introduction until the company foundered. The last AJS Model 18 was produced in August of 1965. These models had, indeed, had remarkable success in off-road racing in the U.S., in Great Britain and around the world.
The offered bike is a Roadster from 1955 production. It is a customized example using mostly parts sourced from other AMC models' contemporary parts lists. It shows only 1,000 odd miles on its odometer.
It appears to a have selection of 16MC (350) Trials and 18CS Scrambler parts: trials tires, aluminum fenders front and rear, a competition fuel tank (without the Roadster kneepads) to say a few. The rear shocks have lost their covers and the rear frame and swinging arm have been painted silver. The dual seat is of unknown origin.
This British big banger single has no known history as to who built and whence it came. Handsome and charming though it undoubtedly is, it will require some careful recommissioning.

Saleroom notices

Please note, the Engine number is 5518S27285, the Frame number is 25358, and the title is in transit.

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