Matchless 1913 TT model 6 4hp JAP ohv 4 cam

Matchless 1913 496cc JAP OHV V-twin “Special TT model” frame # B1793.V

The first Matchless motorcycle was made by the Collier brothers in 1899.
Manx TT results were very good between 1907 and 1912 for Charlie and Harry Collier and this gave a boost to the popularity of the make. In the 1912 line-up were four machines that were fitted with JAP singles, but the 1913 catalogue announced only V-twins: “we are convinced that the twin-cylinder engine is far superior to the single-cylinder engine of the same power, and are discontinuing the manufacture of machines fitted with the latter” it was stated.
The lightest model was a 3 ½ HP meant for solo work, the 7 HP and 8 HP machines were designed to be used with a sidecar alongside.
For the real sportsman there was the coveted ” TT Twin Cylinder” that had an OHV engine.
And then there was another class of machine for riders that wanted a motorcycle specially built to suit their preferences.
These machines were not included in the sales catalogue, but were assembled with parts and specifications that could be different for each individual customer.
The machine we offer has been built according to such individual specifications.
It is fitted with the Matchless variable pulley six speed gear that was originally designed for T.T. models.
The gear is operated by the movement of a pair of levers on the right hand side of the petrol tank.
The inner lever controls the expanding pulley on the engine shaft, the outer lever can change the position of the rear wheel so that the belt tension will remain optimal.
The engine is the OHV JAPV-twin that was fitted to the 1909 and 1910 TT winning Matchless: a four cam big bore tuned engine with special cams, big valves and unusual oversquare bore x stroke dimensions of 70 x 64,5 mm.
When the machine was taken apart before restoration it was found that many parts were individually numbered; parts connected to the engine such as engine mounting plates and exhausts are stamped “32165” so we surmise that this could have been the engine number, which is no longer visible on the engine itself.
Parts connected to the frame such as mudguards are stamped with the engine number and various other numbers are found on individual parts.
All in all this is a very rare Matchless that has been cosmetically restored and comes with acetylene front lamp, handlebar-mounted watch and bulb horn.