Matchless Motorcycles

Today in Motorcycle History

Matchless G9 500cc Vertical Twin

Matchless G9 Super Clubman 1950

SPECIFICATION

ENGINE. 500 cc. Vertical Twin. Bore 66 mm. Stroke 72.5 mm. Designed to provide an exceptional performance without any of the disadvantages usually associated with ultra efficient power units, the following outstanding specification has been provided:

Three bearing crankshaft of exceptional strength, incorporating twin flywheels of generous proportions, separate cylinders deeply spigotted into the die cast spherical crankcase, heavily finned light alloy cylinder heads with integral rocker posts and eccentric spindle rocker adjustment. Stellite tipped valves, cast in valve seats, forged light alloy connecting rods, wire-wound pistons, roller outer main bearings with Vanderveil centre main and big end bearings, full dry sump lubrication with pressure feed to all moving parts by high output twin gear pumps.

GEAR BOX. Oil lubricated heavyweight A speed with enclosed positive stop foot gear-change and kick-starter. Multi plate clutch with Bowden operated handlebar control.

FRAME. Duplex cradle with full Teledraulic oil damped rear suspension, swinging arm of massive construction, pivoting in self lubricating bush in light alloy casting. Centre front and prop stands.

FORKS. Matchless Patented Teledraulic.

BRAKES. Quickly adjustable, internal expanding of extra large diameter.

SADDLE. Integral DunlopUlo leather covered upholstery provides unprecedented comfort for both rider and pillion passenger.

CARBURETTOR. Amal semi-automatic with twist grip throttle control and air lever.

TRANSMISSION. Chain throughout with primary oil bath case and deep section rear guard.

TANKS. 3-gallon petrol tank of welded construction with twin filter taps and chromium plated winged Matchless emblems. 4-pint welded steel oil tank with easily cleaned fabric filter. Quick action filler caps.

MUDGUARDS. New deep section with central rib and tubular stays. Valanced rear quard.

TYRES. 19" x 3.25" front, 19" x 3.50" rear, Dunlop Triple Stud.

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT. Gear driven flange mounted magneto and 45 watt dynamo, both instruments highly accessible for inspection or removal.

PILLION EQUIPMENT. As the Super Clubman provides seating for two people, pillion rests are included without extra charge.

EQUIPMENT. Comprehensive tool kit, grease gun, tyre pump, speedometer and 90-page Instruction Manual.

Images kindly supplied by Motos-Anglaises

N.B. The AJS Model 20 and the Matchless G9 were basically the same, and used the same engine and frame.

AJS Model 20 1955