LOT 585

c.1930 AJS 495cc R10 Racing Motorcycle Registration no. not registered Frame no. 89641 R Engine no. 89641 R10

Estimate: £14,000 - £18,000

Lot 585

c.1930 AJS 495cc R10 Racing Motorcycle
Registration no. not registered Frame no. 89641 R Engine no. 89641 R10

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|16 October 2022, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

c.1930 AJS 495cc R10 Racing Motorcycle
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 89641 R
Engine no. 89641 R10

In 1927 AJS's works racers appeared with a new overhead-camshaft engine, superseding the previous overhead-valve 'Big Port' models. The camshaft was chain driven, its distinctive cast alloy case extending forwards to the front-mounted magneto. A catalogued model from 1928, the 'cammy' AJS was built in 350 and 500cc capacities initially, dry-sump lubrication being an unusual feature of the engines, which were carried in open diamond-type frames. Along with the rest of the range the camshaft models received saddle tanks with purple side panels for 1929. A 250cc version followed, Jimmy Guthrie winning the Lightweight TT on one in 1930. Work by newly recruited former Norton tuners Nigel Spring and Bert Denly resulted in the production overhead-cam models adopting long-stroke dimensions for 1930, the R10 changing to 79x101mm from the preceding M10's 84x90mm. Production ceased with the Matchless take-over in 1931.

This example of the rare AJS R10 overhead-cam 500 was acquired by the late owner (the vendor's father-in-law) some 30 years ago as a restoration project. A considerable amount of work has been done over the years but the owner passed away before the rebuild could be finished. A few parts are missing but the exhaust tailpipe is present. Sold strictly as viewed, the machine comes with a quantity of technical literature (settings, tolerances, etc).
Offered without key

Footnotes

All lots are 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 frame number is 89641 with no 'R' suffix.

Additional information

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