c1950 Matchless G3/L 350cc Motorcycle

Description

Founded by Henry Collier in 1891, Matchless Motor Cycles Ltd of London was one of Britain's pioneering motorcycle companies, building their first engine in 1899 and producing complete motorcycles just three years later. Both Henry Collier and his brother Charlie were successful racers - Charlie won the first ever TT in 1907 - and the Company was offering a range of bikes by the 1920s, from 250cc right up to 1000cc. With the takeover of the AJS concern in 1931 and, briefly, Sunbeam in 1937, a new group called Associated Motor Cycles was formed. Wartime production centred around a single model, the rugged 350cc G3, of which an estimated 80,000 saw active service. The only development of note was a switch to 'Teledraulic' telescopic front forks in 1941 and the revised model, known as the G3L, remained in production once hostilities ceased. Post-war revision kept the Matchless competitive, with bigger 7-inch brakes and revised front forks in 1948, followed by a new frame, hairpin valve springs and valve lifter in the cylinder head for 1949. Motorcycles sporting the flying 'M' continue to enjoy a loyal following and they remain an excellent proposition for club runs or shows today.