AJS Model 31 CSR
Year:
1959
Manufacturer:
Associated Motorcycles, Plumstead, London.
Number Produced:
Unknown
Specifications:
349cc single-cylinder OHV 4 stroke engine. Max speed 78 mph (128 km/h) 4 speed gearbox
Description:
The AJS Model 31 was also produced as the Matchless G12 by the same company. Developed in 1958 specifically to capture the potentially lucrative US market. AJS Model 31 CSR designation officially stood for Competition / Sport / Road but it was dubbed the Coffee Shop Racer by its rivals. With its distinctive 2 into 1 'Siamese' exhaust system and upgraded camshafts, the CSR was a high-performance motorcycle but still prone to leaks and vibration. The factory diverted Chief Engineer Jack Williams from AJS 7R development to address the problems and modify the bikes for racing - with the result that Ron Langston and Don Chapman won the prestigious Thruxton 500 long distance endurance race on the AJS Model 31. Encouraged by this victory in 1963 the AJS Model 31 gained the name Hurricane. By 1966 the company were in financial trouble and production ended.
