Classic British bikes auctioned at Mossgreen Melbourne sale
Montgomery-JAP
Montgomery motorcycles are a rare sight anywhere, so to see the example offered by Mossgreen was a treat. The 1929 model Montgomery, with a 1,000cc JAP v-twin engine, had been treated to a full nut-and-bolt restoration, based around the original engine and frame. A slightly newer Amal carby had been added, and the exhaust system was a modern reproduction, but the rebuilt hand-oiling system was the original.
The bike's 3-speed Sturmey Archer transmission was believed to be the original, but the front and rear mudguards were modern copies, as was the chromed fuel tank.
Soon after the resto was completed, this bike was taken to this year's All British Rally at Newstead, where it covered more than 500km of touring with no problems.
The rare Montgomery-JAP sold for $63,250.
AJS Model 18
The other bike offered was a 1948 AJS Model 18. The 500cc single Model 18 was complete and in good overall condition, carrying the patina of an older restoration.
Although unused for around eight years, the AJS was described as a runner and only needing minor recommissioning. Against an $8,000 high estimate, it sold for $7,475.
At the same auction, a 2007 Valentino Rossi AGV helmet, signed by 'The Doctor' himself, sold for $868.
The auction achieved an 88 per cent clearance rate and total sales of almost $2 million (all prices include buyer's premium).
Go to: mossgreen.com.aufor more details.