Designed by Matt Wright, the DOHC blown V4 was showing considerable potential despite its considerable weight and ongoing cooling problems. In 1939 it broke - smashed rather - the lap record at the Ulster GP with the first 100mph lap of the circuit before retiring with suspension problems. The bike reappeared briefly after hostilities ceased, but then new rules disallowed supercharged models.

Specifications

Engine: Water-cooled 500cc 50x63mm DOHC V4 with Zoller supercharger
Power: 55hp at 7200rpm
Transmission: 4-speed gearbox; chain final drive
Suspension: Girder forks and plunger rear suspension
Brakes Drum front & rear
Weight 405 lb

Image courtesy Motorcycles of the Twentieth Century

AJS 1930s Models