After a second look at the Yorks classic trials website covering the Pre 65 Scottish pics (I really appreciate this photo coverage service being down under) On one pic I noticed the Big John Matchless has a modified primary cover which would indicate the shock absorber spring is removed / changes to the chain drive, the result being a slimmer / reliable good primary gearing and a neat primary drive.

I have not noticed this mod previously and am interested in what constitutes the primary drive which looks like a major improvement as well as reducing engine width.

Although I have never owned a trials Matchless during the classic period, I have always maintained a great interest for the AJS and Matchless models and would be interested to ask Big John for e technical view of his primary side mod.

Brian H

My bike is fairly well standard, only modern parts are:

Renthal bars, wide Sherco footrests, Akront Alloy rims, NJB Shocks; the central alloy oil tank (Comerfords supplied) dates from 1962, otherwise everything else is 1960 Matchless G3C!

Also our former Scottish Champion Gavin Johnston (now riding in Pre-65 trials) had a ride on it and he said: "You can't really call that a trials bike can you?"

I explained that this very bike was used by Ray Staples of the Sidcup club in the 1961 SSDT, Gavin couldn't believe it and his parting shot was "It's horrible".

Big John

You can't buy taste Big John, you've either got it or you hav'nt!,

Each to his own and all that but come on, what does he ride a 2006 cub?

Edited June 20, 200620 yr by 2fargone

Also our former Scottish Champion Gavin Johnston (now riding in Pre-65 trials) had a ride on it and he said: "You can't really call that a trials bike can you?"

I explained that this very bike was used by Ray Staples of the Sidcup club in the 1961 SSDT, Gavin couldn't believe it and his parting shot was "It's horrible".

Then again I would be very surprised if Gavin did not finish well up the results in a trial on your G3 if you loaned it to him.

Perhaps he is open to sponsorship John?

A rider of his calibre on a 'standard' P65 bike would surprise many of the owners of super trick 'P65' bikes.

Edited June 20, 200620 yr by g4321

These may be old pictures or of a different bike... but i have a couple of pictures of Johns bikes Here

Fabulous Dot

Vinnie

Lovely machine Big John Proper motorbike eh

In relation to Julians stunning DOT also, is there any pics of him riding it?