AJS Silver Streak 500 Make Model. | AJS Silver Streak 500 | Year | 1938 | Engine | Single cylinder, single port, push-rod OHV with polished heads and ports | Capacity | 498 cc / 30.4 cu in | Bore x Stroke | 82.5 x 93 mm | Compression Ratio | 5.9 or 7.1:1 | Cooling System | Air cooled | Lubrication | Dry sump | Oil Capacity | 2.8 L / 6 US pt | Exhaust | 1-into-1, high level | Induction | Amal carburetor | Starting | Kick | Max Power | 3.7 kW / 4.98 hp | Transmission | 4 Speed, Burman gearbox | Final Drive | Chain | Gear Ratios | 1st 13.3 / 2nd 8.8 / 3rd 6.4 / 4th 5.0:1 | Front Suspension | Girder fork | Rear Suspension | Rigid, spring loaded saddle | Front Brakes | Drum | Rear Brakes | Drum | Wheels | Chrome plated rims with wire spokes | Front Rim | 3.0 x 26 | Rear Rim | 3.5 x 26 | Dry Weight | 150 kg / 330 lbs | Fuel Capacity | 11 L / 3.0 US gal | The AJS Silver Streak was a British motorcycle launched in 1938 and described in the sales brochure as the 'aristocrats of the motor-cycle world'. Produced with a choice of 250 cc, 350 cc and 500 cc engines, the Silver Streaks were super sport machines with a special polished finish and hand tuned engines. As many parts as possible were specially chrome plated, including the mudguards, headlamp, fork links, front and rear chain cases, oil and petrol tanks and even the tool-box.
The Silver Streak had high ground clearance and a substantial crankcase shield which made it a good competition motorcycle. A low bottom gear made it useful for cross country and close ratios made it a fast road bike. |