1958 Matchless G50 #1709 (winner 1984 Historic TT)

Certainly one of the most iconic British racing motorcycles of all time. The Matchless G50 is a 496cc production racing machine produced from 1958-63 with approximately 200 units total produced. Developed from the AJS 7R “Boy Racer” the G50 quickly found a loyal following and built some legends along the way. Names like Dick Mann, Michelle Duff, Peter Williams, Colin Seeley, Derek Minter, John Cooper became associated with the G50. The storied careers of many a rider and tuner were built around this engine. The fact that it still remains one of the most popular machines for classic racing worldwide is a testament to the innovative design.

This G50, #1709 has it’s own special history. The secretive, nocturnal Al Gunter developed the motor on CR Axtell's dyno and raced the bike on both dirt tracks and road races. Found in a Bakersfield muffler shop in 1976, rebuilt by Team Obsolete, and raced for decades worldwide by David Roper, Yvon Duhamel, John Cronshaw and many others. Its finest hour was David Roper's victory at the 1984 Isle of Man Senior Historic TT, the first American victory ever at the legendary "mountain circuit."

Further reading:

• Me and my bike

• Not so obsolete

• The 1709 story

• Roper conquers

• Matchless G50 1709 Classic Bike Oct 1986