1952 Other Makes AJS MATCHLESS NORTON BSA

52/2011822

Clear

The AJS Model 20 (sister machine to the Matchless G9) is a 500cc parallel twin tourer, one of the most sought-after models of one of the most respected British marques of the last century. The AJS name carries more prestige and panache than the common BSA and Triumph twins of its era. The quality of its build and the durability of these machines is legendary; they were often bolted to family-sized sidecars and hauled the wife and brood to the shore on holiday, while doing daily commuting duty down the long motorways. As a solo machine the Model 20 is a spirited performer, with superb handling and unheard-of comfort for the postwar era. This fine example, while appearing to be in concours condition in the photos, is actually an older restoration, done in England, that has been lovingly cared for and maintained, with the slightest of patina and a few flaws. A small chip on the tank, touched up and virtually invisible, and a scuff to the right side of the rear fender (see arrow in photo) are the most notable flaws. The "Jampot" shocks show some typical wear in the plating. The paintwork is shiny and deep, and laid on thick in the British tradition, with orange peel in some areas that doesn't detract. Original decals, washed over for years, are showing wear. The chrome is superb and the aluminium surfaces polished to a deep, warm glow. The machine is almost completely original, including all its sheetmetal, toolbox (no toolkit included) and the very rare original air pump clipped to the frame. The original Smiths Chronometric speedometer, in beautiful condition, shows an original 32,385 miles. A genuine British-made Dunlop Gold Seal K-70 is fitted to the rear wheel while the front is shod with an Avon Speedmaster Mk II rib. Both tyres have been on this machine for many years and some checking is visible. One deviation from original equipment is the later Amal Concentric carburettor, fitted for easy starting and slightly sharper throttle response and power. This beautiful AJS is a joy to ride. It provides ample performance to mix it up with the 650 and 750 twins of your buddies, and is compact and light enough—with a low centre of gravity—to make it an ideal beginner's classic machine. Ease of starting, almost effortless handling and confidence-inspiring stability make it an ideal choice for the novice or the veteran alike. Its plush original seat—complete with original blue beading—is as comfortable as they come. And you won't see yourself coming down the road, either. It has the presence of a Vincent, Brough Superior or Ariel Square Four—at a fraction the cost. This bike draws a crowd at every classic motorcycle event it attends, and it's been a source of pleasure and pride to me for years. The AJS/Matchless Owners Club offers plentiful guidance, parts and spares availability for these treasured machines. I am thinning my collection and regret having to sell my AJS, but circumstances dictate. It still sports its original British number plates (the aluminium stamped numbers you will notice, not cheap stickers), but I have a clear California title in hand. A California license plate was never applied for and you can do so with the title. Feel free to email me with any questions or call me at 818-705-8655. You are welcome to come view the bike in Tarzana in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles County. Thanks for looking and good luck bidding on this stunning British classic.