AJS Model 31
The AJS Model 31 was a British motorcycle made by Associated Motorcycles at the former Matchless works in Plumstead, London. Developed in 1958 specifically to capture the potentially lucrative US market, the last Model 31 was produced in 1966.[1]
| Manufacturer | Associated Motorcycles Plumstead, London |
|---|---|
| Also called | 'Hurricane' |
| Production | 1958 - 1966 |
| Predecessor | AJS Model 11 |
| Engine | 646cc air cooled twin |
| Power | 35bhp @ 6,500rpm |
| Transmission | Four speed gearbox to chain final drive |
| Brakes | drum brakes |
| Weight | 396 pounds (180 kg) (dry) |
Development
AJS Model 31
The AJS Model 31 was also produced as the Matchless G12 by the same company.[2] Designed by Phil Walker, AMC knew that it had to be a 650cc but wanted to use as many cycle parts from the Model 11 as possible. The cylinders could not be bored out further so the stroke was lengthened from 72.8mm to 79.3mm, resulting in a capacity of 646cc. That meant developing a new crankshaft and primary chaincase, which also provided the opportunity to add a Lucas alternator. Volume production began in September 1958.[1]
AJS Model 31 De Luxe
In 1959 the Model 31 was redesigned and modernised as the De Luxe with a new full cradle tubular duplex frame and a new cylinder head. Vibration had always been a problem, so the crankshaft was upgraded to nodular iron.[1] Capable of 100 mph performance, the AJS Model 31 became popular with the American market.
AJS Model 31 CSR
The AJS Model 31 CSR designation officially stood for Competition / Springer / Road but it was dubbed the Coffee Shop Racer by its rivals.[3] With its distinctive 2 into 1 'siamese' exhaust system and upgraded camshafts, the CSR was a high-performance motorcycle but still prone to leaks and vibration. The factory diverted Chief Engineer Jack Williams from AJS 7R development to address the problems and modify the bikes for racing - with the result that Ron Langston and Don Chapman won the prestigious Thruxton 500 long distance endurance race on the AJS Model 31. Encouraged by this victory in 1963 the AJS Model 31 gained the name Hurricane).[4] By 1966 the company were in financial trouble and production ended.[1]
References
- Currie, Bob (1988). Classic British Motorcycles of over 500cc. Patrick Stephens Ltd. ISBN 978-1-85260-083-9.
- "Matchless G12". Retrieved 14 December 2008.
- Westworth, Frank (1998). The British Classic Bike Guide. Haynes Publishing. ISBN 978-1-85960-426-7.
- Falloon, Ian. "Meet the twins" (PDF). Retrieved 14 December 2008.