c.1937 AJS 347cc Model 26

Registration no. not UK registered Frame no. 1775 Engine no. 37/26 6306A (see text)

AJS were relative latecomers to motorcycle manufacture in 1909. Their subsequent partners, Matchless, had won their first TT in 1907, before the inception of the AJS company, yet AJS went on to achieve greater fame in racing circles with its overhead valve and overhead camshaft models of the 1920s. However, when AJS ran into financial troubles in 1931, they were taken over by Matchless. In the run up to the War, the AJS model range was comprehensive, and in 1937 encompassed 12 models ranging from 250cc singles to 990cc v-twins. 1775 was purchased by the owner when he lived and worked in South Africa. He used the machine occasionally during his time there, and shipped it back to the UK when he returned approximately 23 years ago. Largely unrestored, the bike has been fitted with a single port cylinder head, and a previous owner rebuilt the engine with replacement crankcases which have the original engine number on a brass plate. The original crankcases will accompany the machine. It has had only very occasional use, and been kept in dry garage conditions. The dynamo is neither driven, nor connected to the electrical system, the lights operating from a charged battery. It last ran in November 2019. Documentation comprises the South Africa registration document, a customs and excise 388 form, and a few receipts. The machine will require some re-commissioning and basic safety checks before taking to the road with a new owner.