The David Plant Collection, 1931 AJS 498cc S9L

Dating from the last year of AJS motorcycle production at Wolverhampton, this motorcycle is an example of the Model S9 sidevalve, which was offered in either light or heavyweight forms. The 1931 range was designated by the letter 'S'. Following the 1931 takeover of AJS by rivals Matchless, production was relocated from Wolverhampton to the latter's Woolwich factory and AJS's identity as a separate marque steadily eroded from then onwards as the machines became more like their Matchless counterparts.

Presented in lovely 'oily rag' condition, this ultra-rare AJS is an older restoration and comes with photographs of it 'as found'. Also included is a letter dated September 1995 from Derek Raistrick stating that he had recently purchased an AJS SL9 from Don Lowe. At that time the machine's V5 recorded the year of manufacture as 1930, although it is in fact a 1931 model. The letter describes the AJS as being quite original, retaining a tax disc dating from 1949, and notes that the front mudguard carried a dealer's plate for Arthur G Daw of Brixton Hill, SW2. Raistrick further states that he had started the machine for the first time since 1949.

Also on file is a letter to the vendor dated September 1988 stating that the machine is an S9 500cc side-valve 1931 model and noting that, according to VMCC records, only two other examples were then known to exist (one in the UK and one in Denmark). The letter also records that the engine and frame numbers correspond with those recorded when the machine left the factory, and recommends that, if possible, the original registration number be retained. The machine is described as a rare and unusual example of one of the last true AJS motorcycles, with production of 1931 models being very limited. Unfortunately, the original registration 'FA 4368' had been transferred to another vehicle by February 1989, at which point the machine was allocated the replacement registration 'AJF 625A'. The history file also contains old/current V5/V5C documents; a photocopy of the 1931 AJS brochure; and the aforementioned photographs. The engine turns over.

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.

Key not required