1959 AJS 498cc Model 20 Project
Engine no. 59/20 51805

The last of the major British motorcycle manufacturers to offer a parallel twin, Associated Motor Cycles did not announce its own until the Earls Court Motorcycle Show of 1948, and even then production was for export only. Typed Model 20 (AJS) and G9 (Matchless), the two newcomers followed the established pattern of British parallel twins but were unusual in having an engine with a third, central, crankshaft main bearing. The new 498cc power unit was housed in the swinging-arm frame recently introduced on AMC's heavyweight singles and for once there was a fair amount of variation between the two marques, which featured their own individual tanks, seats and exhaust pipes in addition to the customary badge and colour scheme differences. Assumed to be an AJS Model 20 on account of the engine number (it could, of course, be a Matchless fitted with an AJS motor) this AMC twin is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed. There is no registration document with this motorcycle, which is offered without reserve.