The 1954 AJS 500cc E95 Porcupine represents the final development of the most exotic, innovative, and graceful British Grand Prix racing motorcycle ever made. Described as the “Holy Grail of British Motorcycles”, the AJS Porcupine is the only twin-cylinder motorcycle of the time to have won in 1949 the 500cc World Championship.
This model is one of only four E95s ever built and appeared for ue fist time at the 1952 Isle Of Man TT race, then was developed with the introduction in 1954 of a new pannier-style fuel tanks which extended down on either side of the engine, thus lowering the center of gravity and affording a measure of streamlining. The bike features what is considered the most beautiful exposed clutch ever seen and an AC fuel pump that humorously requires the bike to be stood on its rear wheel for priming (to raise fuel to the carburetor.) Estimated price is between $750,000 and $950,000 and it will be auctioned August 18-19 by Bonhams at the Quail Lodge of Carmel, California.
I didn’t like this bike initially when I was younger, but it definitely grows on you. Ahead of its time?
It would be interesting to know if this bike prompted ideas for Erik Buell
There is no Fricken way this Bike brings any where near that Price!!! Even Leno wouldn’t let himself be embarassed having his peers of Collectors see him pay $750,000 to a 1,000,000 for this Bike.
So what did it sell for? There were several commentators suggesting the near $1million figure
I’d also like to know if it sold and what for. On the Bonhams websit it looks like it didn’t sell but doesn’t show how high the bidding went.
Incredible bike.
High bid for the Porcupine at the Bonhams sale was $650,000 which would’ve been a new world record for a motorcycle sold at auction. However, it did not meet reserve so it did not sell.