Beschreibung:

Originally manufacturers of proprietary engines, A J Stevens Ltd, of Wolverhampton, introduced its first complete motorcycle in 1911. The first AJS was a single-cylinder sidevalve-engined lightweight displacing 292cc that came in two versions, one with direct belt drive (Model A), the other (Model B) having a two-speed countershaft gearbox, an advantage enjoyed by few contemporary rivals. The company first entered the Isle of Man TT in 1911, making an historic breakthrough in 1914 when it won the Junior event, the first such victory by a single-cylinder machine. From then onwards, the 2¾hp (350cc) sidevalve-engined model remained a fixture of the AJS range. When the firm got finally got around to entering the '500' class it was the overhead-valve G8 ('G' being the letter code for 1926) and not until 1927 was there a half-litre sidevalve in the range, the Model H9. Its nomenclature changing with each succeeding year, the Model 9 remained in production until the Matchless take-over of 1931. This particular K9 was purchased in dismantled and incomplete condition from a deceased's estate in Germany and restored between May 2009 and July 2010. Work carried out included overhauling the engine, transmission and magneto; rebuilding the wheels; re-plating the brightwork; and repainting the frame and cycle parts. Zero miles have been covered since completion and the machine is described as in generally good condition. The current owner purchased the AJS at Bonhams' Oxford sale in June 2011 (Lot 187). This rare, Vintage-era AJS '500' comes with Owners' Club dating certificate and Swansea V5C document.