No Reserve – 1952 Matchless G9

Description

Please Note: This is being sold as a runner, not a rider. We have not performed a test ride on it.

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Additional photos of this Matchless G9 are available here for your perusal.

The Matchless G9, almost identical to the AJS Model 20, debuted in 1948 and was initially built for the US market. They were advertised as touring machines with dual seats and plush suspension. Matchless called their bike the Super Clubman, named for the dual seat, megaphone exhausts, and bright chrome finish.

By 1951, Brits were also able to buy the G9 and the Model 20, and they had been revised with the larger “jampot” shocks.

The G9 also achieved some success in the racing world – Derek Farrant set new records in the Senior Manx Grand Prix and won the 1952 running. Production of the G9 ran until 1961, when it was replaced by other verticals like the G12 until Matchless went bankrupt in 1966. As Hagerty notes, these “were not flashes in the pan; they had a reputation of being reliable, well-made, and possessing good handling.”

This example is Engine #: 52G912554. We cannot determine the VIN, we believe it’s on the headstock but was filled in when the frame was redone as part of a restoration. It came to us out of a collection in South Africa, the history is not known.

The odometer shows 5 miles after a restoration, true mileage is unknown.

Maintenance:
Our service department recently cleaned the carb, installed a new battery, and installed some new fuel line. Olly was the technician and he states the following in his condition report:

Gas Tank Internal – Tank Previously Lined; Liner Failing, Tank Rusty
Tire Year Front/ Rear: Pre-2000
Tire Life – Front: 80%; Rear:50%
Tire Pressure – Front/ Rear:32 PSI
Brake Life – Front: 90%; Rear: 90%
Engine Oil: Ok; Quality: Ok
Low Beam: Ok
High Beam: Ok
Turn Signals: NA
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light: Ok, Brake Switch Needs Adjustment (Stays On)
Plate Light: Ok
Killswitch: Ok
Horn: Ok
Battery: 6V

Modifications:
Front fender “pedestrian slicer.”

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on aged out tires.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Matchless is offered on a Bill of Sale only.

Have any G9 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!

Please Note: This is being sold as a runner, not a rider. We have not performed a test ride on it.