The Matchless G45 was developed in 1951 as a grand prix racer using an AJS 7R rolling chassis fitted with a modified Matchless G9 roadster engine with a new aluminium-alloy cylinder barrel and high-flow head with distinctively finned exhaust rocker boxes to aid in cooling. Over the course of its 1951 to 1957 production run just 80 were built, and approximately half that number are thought to have survived today.
Just after it was introduced, a G45 was entered in the Isle of Man TT and finished fourth behind the dominant Nortons, which was quite an achievement for a brand new motorcycle with minimal development time. In 1952, Matchless returned to the Isle of Man TT and this time took a decisive victory, After this win, Matchless quickly announced that the G45 would be available to privateer racers and sales began soon after. The G45 quickly became a common sight in top flight motorcycle grand prix races in Britain, and further afield in the USA, Australia, and South Africa.

The engine in the Matchless G45 is a 498cc parallel twin cylinder with pushrod actuated overhead valves, twin Amal 9300 carburettors, a Lucas competition magneto, and a 6 volt electrical system. The engine produced approx. 55 bhp, giving a top speed of over 130 mph.

The example we are offering for sale is a rare survivor and in concours condition.The motorcycle comes out of a private collection, and it is the perfect entry for Goodwood Revival or any other important historical race event. The G45 looks gorgeous and event standing still it oozes speed. It will need some small recommissioning to be raced again, or it can be a crown jewel in a world class motorcycle collection.
The previous owner of this Matchless was Alberto Puig, father of GP Champion and Repsol Honda team manager Alberto Puig Jnr.

A Matchless G45 comes rarely on the open market, and finding one in this excellent condition is a bit of a unique opportunity.