Ex-Hugh Viney, 1955 Matchless G3LC Trials

• 'OLD 865' first registered to AMC Ltd in 1955
• Used at the Leighton Buzzard Rally in 2018

'OLD 865' is a 1956 Matchless G3LC Trials that was first registered to Associated Motor Cycles Ltd on 9th December 1955. A works machine, it is listed in Don Morley's book Classic British Trials Bikes as ridden (as an AJS) by AMC's star rider Hugh Viney in the 1957 season. Don Morley has confirmed that Hugh Viney did ride 'OLD 865', albeit just once; beyond that, nothing is known of its works history. One important thing to note is that the frame has been modified to shorten the wheelbase by 1", no doubt to render the machine more competitive. This is evidenced by the fact that the primary chain-case has been cut and re-welded, while the engine plates are non-standard.

In December 1957 the machine was sold to John Hartle for his off-season fitness training. John Hartle enjoyed an illustrious career in road racing; he was signed by MV Agusta for the 1958 Grand Prix season, racing alongside John Surtees, and finished runner up to Surtees in both the 350cc and 500cc World Championships that year. At the Isle of Man TT Hartle became only the second rider and first Englishman to lap at over 100mph. He was fatally injured in a crash at Scarborough in 1968.

The Matchless passed to its next owner in January 1959 and then through various other hands, while most recently it stood for several years in a garage in Harpenden. The machine was gifted to the current vendor by the widow of the previous owner, Denis Bradwen Warren of Hertfordshire, and last ran at the Leighton Buzzard Rally in 2018. It should be noted that number '2' of the frame number appears to be double stamped, as does the number '1' of the engine number. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's authenticity, completeness, originality, and mechanical condition prior to bidding. Accompanying paperwork consists of the original RF.60 logbook and current V5C.