History

AJS and Matchless were initially two independent British motorcycle manufacturers, AJS based in Wolverhampton and Matchless in Plumstead, London. Both were active in competition, Matchless particularly in the Edwardian period and AJS in the Twenties and their successes included several TT wins in the Isle of Man.

AJS were victims of the Depression in the late 20's and the Stevens brothers sold their business to Colliers who owned Matchless. Production moved to London and the 2 ranges gradually merged.

Competition continued to be important with the development of the "cammy" R7 and water cooled V4 - holder of the fastest lap record in the world (Walter Rusk, Ulster Grand Prix) Notable successes after World War 2 included the first 500cc World Championship (Les Graham on the "Porcupine") and many home and international wins for the 7R, G45 and G50.

Meanwhile the G3C and 16MC were among the leading trials irons, leading to the ultimate development of the 16MCS by Gordon Jackson and 4 SSDT victories. Meanwhile the works scramblers ridden by Dave Ward, Dave Curtis, Chris Horsfield, Vic Eastwood and Dave Nichol proved a formidable force at home and abroad.

Despite all the competition success, it was the bread and butter models which made the company's reputation. The solid singles, including the G3L widely used by the forces, the interesting Spring Twins with their 3 bearing crank - OK, sometimes 3 piece crank but that is another story - and the perhaps less successful "lightweights". All were renowned for their fine durable finish comparatively, quiet running and, in general if not abused, reliability.

Eventually, Colliers took over James, Francis Barnett and Norton to become Associated Motorcycles which proceeded to commit Hari-Kiri along with the rest of the British industry.

The AJS and Matchless Owners Club was formed a little over 50 years ago and concentrates on these 2 makes. Besides the very active social side of the club, it takes part in the activities of the BMF and FHOMC in representing members interests. It has a dating service and can provide technical advice. Most important it runs a comprehensive and successful spares scheme, helping to have many spares remanufactured.

The club is divided up into sections and has several overseas groups. The Scottish Section functioned for many years largely due to the efforts of two men, Jim Young of Armadale and the late Bill McGregor, a long time enthusiast for the marques. He helped many of us to get our bikes on the road.

The section now holds regular meetings in South Queensferry. The International Jampot Rally was held in Blair Atholl in 1999 and a camping weekend is organised every June.

Other events are less organised but we try to co-ordinate our activities. A number of the members bikes have been exhibited at the Scottish Motorcycle Show at Ingliston and a group of us have shared a stall at the Scottish Classic Motorcycle Racing Club Autojumble - the Haggis Bash and we regularly meet up at various rallies.