Matchless G3
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Make Model | Matchless G3 |
Year | 1962 |
Engine | Single cylinder, two stroke |
Capacity | 348 cc / 21.2 cub in. |
Bore x Stroke | 74 x 81 mm |
Cooling System | Air cooled |
Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 |
Lubrication | Dry sump |
Oil Capacity | 2.8 L / 5.9 US pints |
Exhaust | Single, chrome silencer |
Fuel System | Amal Monobloc carburetor, 1-1/8 in |
Ignition | Coil, Lucas alternator |
Battery | 6V |
Starting | Kick |
Clutch | Wet, multi-plate |
Transmission | 4-Speed |
Final Drive | Chain |
Maximum Power | 16.9 kW / 23 hp @ 6200 rpm |
Frame | Tubular cradle, twin downtubes |
Front Suspension | Telescopic fork with hydraulic damping |
Rear Suspension | Pivoted rear fork controlled by Girling 3-position spring-and-hydraulic units |
Front Brakes | 178 mm / 7 in. drum, finger adjustment |
Rear Brakes | 178 mm / 7 in. drum, finger adjustment |
Wheels | Steel, laced wire spokes |
Front Tyre | 3.25 x 19 in. |
Rear Tyre | 3.50 x 19 in. |
Wheelbase | 1436 mm / 56.5 in. |
Ground Clearance | 165 mm / 6.5 in. |
Seat Height | 775 mm / 30.5 in. |
Wet Weight | 179 kg / 395 lbs |
Fuel Capacity | 19.3 L / 5.1 US gal |
Average Consumption | 3.3 L/100 km / 30 km/l / 71 US mpg |
Top Speed | 129 km/h / 80 mph |
Colours | Black, Red |
Review | Classic Bike, May 1991 |
The 348cc G3 launched for 1962 represented a major shake-up of the roadster single. Its engine dimensions are 74 x 81mm like the earliest version of the OHC 7R racer. The cast-iron crankshaft flywheels used since G3L days were kept, however. Outwardly, the engine changed in having its pushrods enclosed in tunnels cast into the iron barrel. The short-stroke 350s were sold in G3S and G80S sports versions, though alterations from touring specification seem to have been purely cosmetic. Buyers seeking the plonk of a traditional long-stroke engine will prefer the earlier units, but the rare interim 350 offers snappier acceleration.
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