Beschreibung:

Prior to the sport’s universal adoption of rear suspension, from late 1954 onwards, the rigid framed AMC trials models – whether in 350 or 500cc form – outsold all rival brands with the arguable exception of Norton. While these Ajays & Matchies deservedly enjoyed a reputation for rugged construction they were equally renowned for excess weight, coupled with the fact the standard specification shared far too many components with their street model siblings. For trials work the slightly more docile 350 was more popular than the 500 model, although it should be recalled that (before achieving ‘works rider’ status with AJS) Gordon Jackson achieved innumerable wins on a full half liter Matchless; a tradition that is continued by Len Hutty in today’s pre-65 classic trials. OSL 989 is the epitome of the special builder’s art. Owned at one time by publisher and former TT competitor Malcolm Wheeler it was while he was competing in the 2002 Press Trial that a Louis Vuitton ‘machine-spotter’ recommended Wheeler enter this immaculate competition Matchless in LV’s prestigious Hurlingham Club Concours event later that year, which he did, and where it duly carried off the award for Engineering Excellence. Maintained by the present owner on a no-expense- spared basis it is refreshing to report how, in the last 12 months, the bike has been happily ridden in the Red Marley, Bonanza, and Talmag Trials, the sort of outings that are rarely undertaken by machines with genuine Concours credentials! The impressive specification includes a number of modifications, which, while helping to reduce overall weight, directly improve both power and handling. The ultra neat rear frame assembly was completed by John Hattersley; his expertise providing an extensive amount of ground clearance, but with a sufficiently trim wheelbase to give adequate grip. Fitted with ‘upside-down’ gas shocks, glass fibre fuel tank, lightweight single-sided front hub, a minimum seat pad and alloy bash-plate and oil tank, plus a set of alloy rims, the Matchless tips the scales at many pounds less than the standard model. Additional modifications and improvements see the fitment of electronic ignition, Amal 626 concentric, and Wader magneto; items which ensured the machine fired up instantly – together with a very regular tickover – on the occasion of our photography session. Fitted with a set of rear-mounted folding footrests, and a folding kick-start, the machine is MOT’d until January 2010, is on the SORN register, and is accompanied by an original 36-page Programme covering Louis Vuitton’s 2002 Concours. An exceptional machine, worthy of inspection by the discerning trials enthusiast!