New AJS 18

AJS 18

There’s something to be said for a simple, classic British thumper, and they don’t get much simpler than this. It’s a 1949 AJS 18, sent in by Vincent from the Southsiders MC. The 498cc four-stroke thumper was one of the last big-selling British singles before the industry turned to twins, but the AJS 18 was actually designed before WW2—so it was three decades old by the time production stopped in 1966. This particular model belongs to Polo Garat, a well-known photographer from the Basque country; the guys shot it during a recent weekend while crossing over the beautiful Pyrenean mountains. The bike has been stored in a barn for the past ten years, but was ridden daily in the 80s and 90s—and wheeled out for longer travels too, despite the rigid rear end. I can just imagine this one putt-putting leisurely over the hills, and then parked up in front of a café in an ancient town square. Have a great weekend. [Thanks to Vincent Prat.]