The David Plant Collection, 1912 AJS 2¾hp

Originally manufacturers of proprietary engines, A J Stevens Ltd, of Wolverhampton, introduced its first complete motorcycle in 1911. The first AJS was a single-cylinder sidevalve-engined lightweight displacing 292cc that came in two versions, one with direct belt drive (Model A)while the other (Model B) had a two-speed countershaft gearbox, an advantage enjoyed by few contemporary rivals. The company first entered the Isle of Man TT in 1911, making an historic breakthrough in 1914 when it won the Junior event, the first such victory by a single-cylinder machine. From then onwards the 2¾hp (350cc) sidevalve-engined model remained a fixture of the AJS range. Light in weight (around 200lbs) robust and adequately powerful, the model is widely regarded as one the finest of early Vintage sports machines.

Offered with a purchase invoice from Brian Verrall dated September 1988, this very early AJS is offered with a history file containing photographs of the machine as found/purchased (date unknown) and a selection of MoT certificates, including examples expiring in June 1990, September 2000, January 2002 and December 2005. Also on file is a letter from the vendor dated 26th November 1993, addressed to the long-term Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club member and Pioneer Registrar at the time, Wally Lambert, requesting that he enter the AJS on behalf of a friend and asking for a copy of the Pioneer certificates.

Various frame drawings are present also, together with a letter dated September 1988 from the SMCC's 'Tiny' Ayres regarding the sending of a photocopy of the Pioneer certificate. Photocopied literature on file relates to the 1912 model and includes photocopies of The Motor Cycle, 16th November 1911, together with various photocopied period advertisements and contemporary articles. Also included is a photocopy of a Pioneer certificate dated January 1987 when the machine was recorded as owned by Mr J McCulley of Haywards Heath, West Sussex, and a Pioneer certificate dated 1st December 1988 issued in the vendor's name. Offered with old/current V5/V5C documents. It should be noted, the V5C records the engine number as L696 opposed to 1696 (a typographical error).

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.

The engine turns over.
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