LOT 224

1950 AJS 350cc Model 16MC Trials Registration no. MYB 86 Frame no. 58875 Engine no. 52/16MC16989

Sold for £3,450 inc. premium

Lot 224

1950 AJS 350cc Model 16MC Trials

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|27 April 2025, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1950 AJS 350cc Model 16MC Trials
Registration no. MYB 86
Frame no. 58875
Engine no. 52/16MC16989

Using models based on the wartime Matchless G3 military machines, AMC dominated the UK trials scene in the immediate post-WW2 years. Stars such as Hugh Viney and Gordon Jackson riding for AJS and Artie Ratcliffe and Ted Usher for Matchless won countless national events, while clubmen everywhere favoured the Plumstead marques' products more than those of any of their rivals. Important steps in the evolution of AMC's trials models included revised steering geometry, alloy cylinder barrel and 'head, and a lightweight all-welded frame. Introduced for the 1954 season, the latter remained rigid at the rear despite evidence that a 'springer' worked better. And although a 500cc model was offered until the early 1950s, the works boys always favoured the milder and more easily managed 350, as did the vast majority of customers.

Not much is known of this AJS and its previous history but we're advised by the vendor his late father used it for green laning during the summer months and was last used a year ago, therefore it will need careful recommissioning before turning to the road (the engine turns over). Offered with a V5C, AJS singles workshop manual and spares list.
Key not required

Footnotes

The AJS and Matchless Owners Club has kindly informed us that this motorcycle is not a factory-produced trials competition model. The "C" engine suffix appears to be a later addition. Instead, the bike is a converted road model - specifically, a 16M - as indicated by the frame number 58875 and engine number 16M 16989. It is also fitted with an iron cylinder barrel.
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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 27 April, with the auction starting at 11am GMT.

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