1924 AJS Big Port

Lot details
Registration No: SV 8234
Frame No: 34442
Engine No: K6101005
cc: 350
MOT Expiry Date: None

With a background in internal combustion design, the four Stevens brothers marked their transition from engine suppliers to motorcycle manufacturers by founding AJS in 1909 (named after the eldest sibling Albert John). Debuting the following year, the first AJS was powered by a 292cc sidevalve engine and could be had with either direct belt or two-speed / chain drive transmission. A thoroughly conventional machine, it swiftly evolved until AJS were able to claim first, second, fourth and sixth places in the 1914 Isle of Man Junior Tourist Trophy race. Returning to the Manx circuit for the first post-WW1 TT in 1920, the Wolverhampton concern fielded no less than six bikes all powered by a new overhead valve, single-cylinder unit (complete with hemispherical combustion chamber). While five fell by the wayside, the sixth battled on to cross the finishing line in first place. Securing victory in the 1921 and 1922 Junior TTs as well, AJS finally released a road-going overhead-valve 349cc single for 1923. Soon nicknamed the 'Big Port' by enthusiasts (on account of its exhaust pipe diameter), this sporting lightweight was said to be good for some 75- 80mph. A 'flat tanker' with nimble handling, it remains among the best regarded vintage machines.
Finished in black, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in good condition with regard to its engine, cycle parts, paint / brightwork, transmission, electrics and frame / suspension. Believed to have been the subject of an older restoration (though, there is no paperwork to support this), it is currently SORN registered and so will require re-commissioning prior to road use. Part of a private collection since 2002, it is offered for sale with V5 registration document.