AJS Motorcycles 10r 1937
Let’s delve into the myths of the numbering of Cammy AJ’s to start with. The 350s always had the number 7 and 500s the number 10.
Up to the time when the old Wolverhampton firm of AJ Stevens went into liquidation there was a prefix letter according to the year – K was 1928, M was 1929, R was 1930 and S was 1931, but no camshaft models were made in 1932.
When the model was reintroduced by Matchless in 1933 it became the 33/7 and 33/10 respectively. The following year they were 34/7 etc. up until 1939 except that the 500 was dropped after 1937. The 1938/39 models had R added to the model number and were 7Rs exactly the same as their illustrious post war brother,’ the boy racers’.
Many people think the early camshaft 350s was designated R7 but the only R7s were the 1930 350s. Still confused?
This bike has been on the NZCMRR Classic Race scene in New Zealand for some time owned and rebuilt by Ken Campbell (and family). There is an interesting story about the name ‘Kaye’ on the fuel tank (ask one of the guides about it).
We understand that in 1936 three R10 bikes were built in the AJS factory and 5 motors in total. We are lead to believe that this may be the only runner in the southern hemisphere.
This example has a chain driven overhead camshaft and a bronze cylinder head. (38 hp)
Previous owners:
- Paul Clarkson
- Ron Breur
- Ron Locket
- Max Cleverly
The bike is probably only going to be used in Parade events at Classic meets given its rarity.
If you know or have any other information on this model, please help us, as 1936 R 10 history is scarce.