motorbike exhibits

Formed by the Stevens brothers, A.J.S. of Wolverhampton were successful engine makers in the first decade of the last century, making their own machines from 1909. In 1914, their 2¾hp machines gained first and second places in the Junior T.T. in the hands of Cyril Pullin and H.R.Davis. After that victory, racing and competition in all forms was at the back of all A.J.S. design and manufacture, the machines being highly prized and beautifully finished, always in black and gold. Though side-valve engines had been the basis of their success, the company was at the forefront of overhead-valve - and, later, overhead-camshaft - engine design. Soon nicknamed the 'Big Port' by enthusiasts (on account of its exhaust pipe diameter), this sporting lightweight was said to be good for some 75- 80mph. A 'flat tanker' with nimble handling, it remains among the best regarded vintage machines. Sir Len Southwards first motorcycle was a ‘Bigport’ AJS.