This is a classic motorcycle I have ownedfor 20 years.  It has a complete andpainstaking mechanical restoration and overhaul by Wes Scott Cycles in FortLauderdale.  Wes used OEM parts wheneverand wherever available around the world, including Great Britain and Australia.The gearbox was replaced with one found by an online biker buddy in the“outback.” When parts could not be located, Wes Scott (who specializes inBritish bike restoration) fabricated them. He laced up a “new” rear wheel using a rim from an old AJS and newspokes he adapted laced in by hand.          The model is G3L. The bike was sold to me as a 1942, and I have a bill of sale signed bythe seller acknowledging “payment in full for 1942 Matchless G3L” It is paintedan olive drab green and the verbal provenance from the seller was that the bikewas used by the Australian military in the South Pacific during World WarII.  I cannot confirm that, and theFlorida title shows the bike as a 1949. The title agent who changed the title over from Australia reported thatthe VIN on a frame member matched up with a 1949, so it is possible that theframe member on a 1942 was replaced with a 1949, but there is no warranty aboutits year of manufacture.          Called a “Thumper” as a result of the rhythmic sound of thesingle-cylinder engine, this bike starts and runs well. Matchies have afour-speed transmission with the shifter on the right and an unusual shiftpattern that take some getting used to.  Buyit and you will enjoy thumping past appreciative onlookers on a one-of-a-kindclassic.