Lot 609: 1968 Matchless 745cc G15CS

Following the handful of G15s built for export only in 1962 and fitted with AMC’s own 750cc engine, the concept was revived in the middle of the decade using the Norton Atlas engine in the existing G12CSR frame. By this time Norton production had been shifted to AMC’s Plumstead factory, and in a further move towards product rationalisation, the new G15 roadster (and similar AJS Model 33) was fitted with Norton hubs and Roadholder forks. CSR sports roadsters and trail-styled CS models followed soon after, and these Norton-powered models were the only AMC twins left in production by the end of 1966. Manufacture ceased the following year and today these relatively rare AMC/Norton hybrids are becoming increasingly collectible. This rare Matchless G15CS was acquired in the USA (where most of the production ended up) by its current owner in March 1986 and imported into the UK in 1997, while accompanying documentation appears to indicate that the recorded mileage of 10,716 is genuine. Also contained within the history file are USA registration papers, sundry invoices, importation documents, SORNs, instruction manual, part lists and Swansea V5/V5C registration documents. The vendor advises us that the fuel tank was repainted in the 1990s and that work has been carried out on the magneto and carburettors in more recent years. While in the vendor’s possession the machine has formed part of his private museum collection. Routinely maintained by its enthusiast owner and exercised regularly on a private estate until mid-2006, it would, nevertheless, benefit from gentle re-commissioning before returning to the road. Its original US-market handlebars come with the machine.