1933 AJS 495cc Model 10

Frame no. 7/529   Engine no. 33/10/503

In 1927 AJS’ works 350cc racers appeared with a new overhead-camshaft engine. The camshaft was chain driven, its distinctive cast alloy case extending forwards to the front-mounted magneto. A catalogued model from 1928, the ‘cammy’ AJS was built in 350 and 500cc capacities initially, dry-sump lubrication being an unusual feature of the engines, which were carried in open diamond frames. Along with the rest of the range the camshaft models received saddle tanks with purple side panels for 1929. A 250cc version followed, Jimmy Guthrie winning the Lightweight TT on one in 1930.

Following the Matchless take-over of 1931, AJS production was relocated to Plumstead where the existing range continued largely unaltered. Indeed, the two marques would retain largely separate identities until the outbreak of WW2. In 1933 a pair of new overhead-camshaft AJS sports models was introduced, replacing those carried over from before the take-over. Designated Models 7 (350cc) and 10 (500cc), the newcomers kept the chain-driven cam of their predecessors but otherwise were entirely new. The magneto was moved behind the cylinder and dry-sump lubrication used for the new engines, which drove via a four-speed gearbox fitted with a positive-stop, foot-change mechanism, an innovation pioneered by Velocette. Stripped-down racing versions were available in addition to an off-road competition Trophy model, so-named in recognition of George Rowley’s success in the ISDT. Production of the ‘cammy’ Model 7 carried on into 1939 but the Model 10 was not listed after 1936, making it one of the rarer and more desirable of post-Vintage sporting thoroughbreds.

This specimen was totally restored in 2010 - with no expense spared - by the Sammy Miller Museum’s own workshops to their customary impeccable standard. After completion the machine was ridden by Sammy at the AJS Centenary gathering at Woolwich and tested by journalist Roy Poynting for an article in The Classic MotorCycle magazine.
The AJS then came to Venice/Italy and was registered there. The current owner bought the motorcycle from the Italian a few years ago and rode it in a few competitions. This stunning example of the rare AJS Model 10 ‘cammy’ 500 is offered with old-style continuation logbook, current MoT and Swansea V5 document and italian registration document.