1938 AJS 350cc Single - Black - 2,897 Miles - Original Pre-War British Survivor
Price Guide: $4,500 - $7,500
1938 AJS 350cc single-cylinder four-stroke | manual transmission | wire-spoked wheels | 2,897 miles | black
Description
AJS built out of Wolverhampton, and during the interwar years they were making machines with genuine engineering credibility. The 350cc single-cylinder was the sweet spot of the era, light enough to be practical and powerful enough to do real work. This 1938 example sits in that window where pre-war British motorcycles were at their most refined, and with just 2,897 miles showing on the original Smiths speedometer, it has spent most of its 86 years in careful storage rather than on the road. Vendor advises the bike last held NSW historic registration in 2015 and has been stored correctly since.
Condition throughout is consistent with what the mileage and careful storage would suggest. The black paint retains good gloss across the fuel tank with age-appropriate patina, the AJS script tank badge and oil tank badge with minimum oil level text are clearly present and original. Finned cylinder head and barrel are unmodified and confirm the 350cc single-cylinder configuration. The pressed steel frame shows honest wear and surface oxidation typical of a machine this age. Chrome work on the handlebars, exhaust and trim shows the expected tarnishing of period components. Engine cases are largely dry with no evidence of significant oil seepage. The AJS primary chaincase displays the original script logo. Sidecar attachment points are visible on the frame, indicating this machine was fitted for sidecar use at some point in its history. Photos show display-quality presentation from the right-side angles, with the rear section presenting particularly well.
Pre-war British singles with documented low mileage and honest, unrestored presentation are increasingly scarce. This AJS sits at the intersection of collectibility and potential rideability, with comparable 350cc British singles from the same era fetching GBP 3,500 to GBP 6,500 at specialist auctions depending on provenance and originality. An unrestored survivor like this, with period-correct components intact, appeals equally to the collector seeking an authentic piece of British motorcycle heritage and the enthusiast considering a sympathetic restoration to use on historic registration.
Features
* 350cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine, aspirated induction
* Manual clutch and transmission
* Original pressed steel frame with sidecar attachment points
* Finned cylinder head and barrel, unmodified
* Original Smiths speedometer reading 2,897 miles
* AJS script badge on primary chaincase, oil tank, and rear mudguard
* Period-correct girder front forks
* Wire-spoked wheels with chrome rims
* Original leather saddle with coil spring mounting
* Chrome handlebars, mirrors, and exhaust system
* Rigid rear frame, period-correct configuration
* Original period lighting including Lucas-style headlamp
* Vendor advises last NSW historic registration was 2015
* Vendor advises always stored correctly
Specifications
Year: 1938
Make: AJS
Model: 350cc Single
Engine: Single-cylinder four-stroke, 350cc
Transmission: Manual
Odometer: 2,897 miles
Colour: Black
Frame: Pressed steel, rigid rear
Wheels: Wire-spoked
Chassis No: 38166330A
If you have any questions relating to this vehicle, or if you would like to arrange a physical or virtual inspection, please contact Gavin directly on 0455 500 400
Sold unregistered
(Key #5cc)
Lloyds stock #580306+1
#CCALL
#CCJDM
Location of item: 60 Marple Avenue, Villawood, NSW, Australia
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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