Matchless L/3.
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The condition of this original old sales leaflet isn't great, in fact it's only just about clinging to completeness. But for a measly fifteen pence on eBay, I can't really complain. It was produced on behalf of H. Collier & Sons Limited, of the Matchless Motor Works, Plumstead, in London, manufacturers of the Matchless
range of motorcycles. This isn't the first time that Collier & Sons, and their fine range of machines, has featured on OCC, as a few years ago
a sales invoice dating to 1928, issued by the firm for the sale of various motorcycle parts, was added in - it can be found here. While not perfect, that ancient invoice has survived in better condition than this leaflet.
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The leaflet is specifically for the Matchless L/3 350cc, in both Solo and Combination (sidecar) form, the L/3 referred to as "THE SUPERIOR TOURING MACHINE". The front page features an illustration of the motorcycle, in Solo guise, along with a list of prices for the bike and accessories. Each purchase option has, cryptically, an associated "Code Word", presumably another way of saying "Reference Number". Options offered included a full kit of tools, a tyre pump, either a Lucas Acetylene or Magdynette headlamp arrangement, Cowey speed & trip meter, legshields, and instruction book. The publication is dated 1st July 1924.
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Gingerly opening this fragile document reveals, to the left, a list of the L/3's specification, including information regarding the frame, the forks, and its engine,
which is described as: "Matchless 3hp high efficiency side valve engine, roller bearings to big end and driving side. Aluminium piston,
large diameter floating gudgeon pin. Aluminium ribbed valve caps. Mechanical lubrication."
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All L/3s were sold in "Standard Matchless grey enamel or black at option for export; usual parts heavily nickel plated."
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The third printed page continues to list the features of the L3, again with both options for Lucas illumination listed, along with the extra cost incurred if desiring a bulb horn. Details for the sidecar combination alternative then follow, as does a table listing the machine's dimensions, fuel and oil consumption figures, maximum speed (50mph, or 40mph with sidecar fitted), and the cost of road tax.
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The reverse of the leaflet concentrates on the sidecar version, which is described as follows:
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"The sidecar is stylish, roomy and comfortable, and this outfit is capable of carrying two adults anywhere at good rate
of speed. Low in first cost - economical in upkeep - will be one of the popular machines for 1924."
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More items relating to motoring in the olden days may be found in the Motoring Collectables section. While most of the site concentrates on nostalgia relating to the motor-car, there are quite a few references to motorcycles and sidecars.
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