Present ownership since 2007 Requires re-commissioning Brough Superior SS80 performance at a fraction of the cost

Ill-timed diversification that coincided with the post-Wall Street Crash depression would result in the sad demise of A J Stevens Ltd, which had been manufacturing motorcycles of high quality at its Wolverhampton works since 1911. AJS was taken over by Matchless in 1931 and production shifted to the latter's factory in Plumstead, South London where the existing range continued largely unaltered initially. Indeed, the two marques would retain largely separate identities until the outbreak of WW2, although their models became increasingly similar, using the same engines, gearboxes, and other major components.

AJS's own 998cc sidevalve v-twin was one of the first models to be dropped, disappearing at the end of the '31 season, and for the next 12 months there was no large-capacity 'sidecar tug' in the range. That changed in July 1932 with the arrival of the new Model 2, which was powered by the engine of the long-established Matchless Model X. This 982cc sidevalve v-twin engine had first appeared in the 'X/2' in 1925 and would remain in production until the outbreak of WW2, being supplied to Brough Superior for use in the SS80 from 1935 onwards.

Intended primarily for sidecar duty, the Model 2 became available to 'export' specification during 1933 complete with American-style foot-operated clutch, left-side gear lever, and swept-back handlebars. The Model 2 continued to be available in domestic and export forms until 1939 and was included in the catalogue for 1940. Sadly, this imposing and handsome machine did not reappear after the War's end.

This AJS Model 2 has belonged to the vendor since October 2007. Believed to be an older restoration, 'HV 8529' is offered in need of re-commissioning, or possibly more extensive renovation, and is sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns and the machine would respond well to detailing). Accompanying documentation consists of an old-style continuation logbook and old/current V5/V5C Registration Certificates.

This motorcycle is to be auctioned at our Live and Online Winter Sale, Hanger 113, Bicester Heritage, OX26 5HA.

SALE TIMES

Friday 11 December
Spares & Memorabilia (Lot 1 - 112) 9am
The National Motorcycle Museum Reserve Collection (Lots 201 – 252) 11am


Saturday 12 December
Motorcycles (Day 2) (Lots 501 – 708) 10am



VIEWING
In light of the current government guidelines and relaxed measures we are delighted to welcome viewing, strictly by appointment. All the lots will be on view at Bicester Heritage in our traditional Hangar 113. We will ensure social distancing measures are in place, with gloves and sanitiser available for clients wishing to view motorcycle history files.


Please contact Bonhams Motorcycles by clicking 'Message the seller' with your preferred date, time and vehicle registration number to book an appointment.


VIEWING TIMES
Wednesday 9 December 9am to 5pm
Thursday 10 December 9am to 5pm
Friday 11 December 9am to 5pm (Lots 501 – 708 only)


LIVE AND ONLINE AUCTION

Please note that whilst public viewing is available by appointment, the auction itself will be conducted from a remote saleroom, behind closed doors without public access, in accordance with the current government guidelines. All bidding will be conducted via Online, Telephone and Absentee Bidding. Please contact our Bids Department to register using the 'Message the seller' button.


COLLECTION OF PURCHASED LOTS

Motorcycle lots must be cleared from the sale venue by 2pm Sunday 13 December 2020. Limited collection is available until 2pm Monday 14 December, by appointment only. If collecting Monday, please access Bicester Heritage via the 'Main Gate', Buckingham Road, OX26 5HA. Please email us using the 'Message the seller' button with your collection or transport instructions as soon as possible following your successful bid. Failure to instruct Bonhams by the given time will result in your vehicle being uplifted to store at your expense, as detailed in the Conditions of Sale. Buyers should satisfy themselves that they have collected all relevant log books, documents and keys relating to their Lot(s) at time of collection.


AUCTION ADDRESS

Hangar 113
Bicester Heritage
Buckingham Road
Bicester
Oxfordshire
OX26 5HA