LOT 281

1953 Matchless 348cc G3L/S Registration no. MVC 182 (see text) Frame no. 93777 Engine no. 53/G3L S 20635

Sold for £1,150 inc. premium

Lot 281

1953 Matchless 348cc G3L/S

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|14 October 2023, 10:30 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1953 Matchless 348cc G3L/S
Registration no. MVC 182 (see text)
Frame no. 93777
Engine no. 53/G3L S 20635

Associated Motor Cycles announced its post-war range of AJS and Matchless heavyweight singles in June 1945. Coded Model 16 and G3L respectively, the two 350cc models shared the same 93mm stroke as their 500cc brethren, coupled to a 69mm bore. Housed in a rigid frame with Teledraulic front fork, the overhead-valve engine drove through 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, machines so-equipped being suffixed 'S'.

This Matchless G3L/S was purchased by the lady vendor's great uncle. He was a marshal at the Isle of Man TT and it is believed he used this machine during the races. Carrying a tax disc that expired in September 1974, the Matchless is offered for restoration. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to the motorcycle's completeness, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding. Please note that the registration 'MVC 182' is not recorded in the HPI/DVLA database. Accordingly, prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to the validity of the vehicle's registration number prior to bidding. Nothing more is known about the history of this machine, which is sold strictly as viewed. Accompanying documents include the original logbook; continuation logbook (issued 1974); expired MoT certificate (1975); and a Matchless spares list.

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.

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