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Matchless G50 1961

1961 MATCHLESS G50. Just as the G45 model Matchless was
I-1 derived from existing machines in the A.M.C. range, so the history
of that factory's single-cylinder G50, which superseded the twin in 1959, can be directly traced to its stablemates; in fact it was virtually a grown-up version of the 350 c.c. 7R A.J.S.—the model known as the "Boy Racer"!

The engine was a sturdy single-cylinder with a chain-driven single overhead camshaft operating the valves through rockers. An extension of the timing case to the rear enclosed a gear train which drove the magneto, whilst a gear-type oil pump was carried in the base of the case. For 1961 the lower part of the timing case was recessed to allow the exhaust pipe to be tucked in closer to the engine, enabling the megaphone to be sited slightly farther rearwards without increasing the actual, critical, exhaust pipe length. This would enable the machine to be cranked over more acutely without grounding.

The rest of the machine was virtually identical with the A.J.S. "350" (except for the fuel tank which was finished in a pleasant maroon). That is to say that a duplex cradle frame, with a single top-tube between seat nose and steering head, carried the engine and A.M.C.-built gearbox, the twin down-tubes sweeping round behind the gearbox to end at the top-fixing point for the rear suspension; the pivot for the rear suspension Was carried between these tubes just astern of the gearbox, giving a desirably wide pivot, a prerequisite of good handling.

Just as the 7R had done a decade or more before, the G50 quickly made itself a good name, being acknowledged as exceptionally quick in the "middle-power" range so essential on twisty circuits. In maintenance costs, too, it found favour with the riders, for it seemed to maintain its tune far better than did the slightly faster 500 "Manx" Norton—and sPares cost less, always a point with the hard-up chaps who constitute the backbone of the sport!

SPECIFICATION
Engine: single-cylinder 500 c.c. o.h.c; drive to camshaft by chain.
Ignition: Lucas magneto.
Transmission: chain via four-speed gearbox.
Frame: duplex cradle with single top-tube; rear suspension by pivoting-fork controlled by Girling hydraulically damped units.
Forks: "Teledraulic" telescopies with hydraulic damping.