• Delivered new to New Zealand
• Dating from the first year of production
• Restored in 2020
• Full photographic record of the rebuild

By the late 1920s, AJS's overhead-valve 'Big Port' was nearing the end of its development, and in 1927 the works race bikes appeared with a new overhead-camshaft engine. Instead of the customary shaft and bevel gears, the camshaft was chain driven, its distinctive cast-alloy case extending forwards to the front-mounted magneto. After initial lubrication problems had been sorted out, works rider Jimmy Simpson rode the 350cc version to victory in the Belgian, Swiss, Austrian and European Grands Prix in 1927. A catalogued model from 1928, the 'cammy' AJS was built in 350cc (K7) and 500cc (K10) capacities initially, customer versions being equipped with three-speed gearboxes rather than the works bikes' four-speed units. By the end of the 1929 season the improved 350cc model (now designated 'M7') had chalked up victories in the German TT and the Grands Prix of Austria, Ulster and Europe. A 250cc version followed, Jimmy Guthrie winning the Lightweight TT on one in 1930. By this time Freddie Hicks had been hired as AJS's No.1 works rider and his renowned development skills had resulted in further improvements to the factory bikes, which scored 350-class wins at the Dutch TT and the Grands Prix of Germany, Austria, France and Ulster. Sadly, AJS's worsening financial situation curtailed further development, and although cammy S7 and S10 models were listed for 1931, production ceased later that year when the company was taken over by Matchless.

This AJS K7 was delivered new to New Zealand in 1928 and rediscovered many years later, in 1953, abandoned in a shed on a sheep farm. Largely complete and in very sound condition when found, the machine went on to have various owners in New Zealand before being purchased and restored to its former glory in 2020 by the current vendor, who advises us that it is correct in detail for 1928. Noteworthy features include inverted control levers; push/pull throttle twistgrip; John Bull handlebar rubbers; correct Lucas racing magneto (fully rebuilt); and an André Hartford steering damper. Major restoration works included rebuilding the engine, gearbox and wheels, and nickel plating the brightwork. A full photographic record of the restoration, including before and after pictures, is offered with the machine.

Magnificently presented, this beautiful cammy AJS starts readily and is said to be a pleasure to ride. Indeed, the vendor last rode the machine in May of this year and tells us that the experience was delightful.