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LOT 114

1954 AJS Model 18S Frame no. 80260 Engine no. 54/18S 24835

Sold for US$6,325 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 114

1954 AJS Model 18S

1954 AJS Model 18S
Frame no. 80260
Engine no. 54/18S 24835

Associated Motor Cycles announced its post-war range of AJS and Matchless 'heavyweight' singles in June 1945. Coded Model 18 and G80 respectively, the two 500cc models shared the same 93mm stroke as their 350cc brethren, coupled to an 82.5mm bore. Housed in a rigid frame with Teledraulic front fork, the ruggedly built overhead-valve engine drove via a four-speed gearbox. Hairpin valve springs were adopted for 1949 and a swinging-arm frame introduced, the latter initially for export only but available in the UK from 1950, models so-equipped being suffixed 'S'. A comprehensive revision of the engine was the major update made to AMC's singles range for 1958, a switch from dynamo to alternator electrics on the roadsters necessitating the adoption of a cast-alloy primary chaincase. Battery/coil ignition was adopted at the same time, so the distinctive magneto drive cover was deleted and the timing gears contained within a smaller case. In addition, the revised models were distinguished by shorter shock absorbers and chromed wheel hubs. These 500 singles would be the mainstay of Associated Motorcycles from their introduction until the company foundered. The last AJS Model 18 was produced in August 1965. They had remarkable success in off road racing in both the U.S. and Britain.

Originally sold to a buyer in South Africa, this machine entered Mr. Jacobs' collection from another enthusiast's collection in 1985. Having been on static display for a number of years, a thorough service will be required to bring the motorcycle back out on to the road.

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