c.1959 Matchless 650cc G45 Replica
Frame no. 1683
Engine no. 59/G12x1191

After the Second World War the first racing machine produced by the AMC concern was the AJS Porcupine, which was never available for sale to the public. This was followed by the commercially-available overhead cam 7R single in 1948, and in 1953 by the Matchless G45 which was much more conventional in its layout than the Porcupine twin. Its basis was the rolling chassis of the 7R racer, with a twin cylinder overhead valve motor with 500cc displacement, similar to the road-going G9 engine in some respects. The G45 stayed in production until 1957, although never in large numbers.

This replica G45 has been constructed with a 7R frame and a 650cc Matchless G12 engine, in homage to the twin cylinder racer. It is equipped with a Grimeca four leading shoe front brake, AMC clutch and four speed gearbox, genuine 7R oil tank, and valanced alloy rims. Carburation is via twin Amal concentrics, and ignition by Lucas magneto. It is fitted with an oil tap to prevent wet-sumping. Little is known of the history of the machine, other than that it was said to have been raced in Northern Ireland prior to acquisition by the vendor some three years ago. During the present ownership the bike has not been raced or paraded, although the owner has started it on regular occasions. This G45 replica can provide the looks, style, and probably performance of the original racer at a fraction of the price of the real thing.