The Matchless Model X is a Matchless motorcycle made from 1929 to 1940. Built for V-twin enthusiasts with a reinforced rear frame for heavy sidecar work, it was upgraded and rebranded as the Sports Tourist in 1936, and its 990 cc engine was also used by Brough Superior.
Matchless Model X at a glance
| Maker | Matchless, Plumstead, London |
|---|---|
| Production | 1929–1940 |
| Engine | 990 cc V-twin |
| Purpose | touring and heavy-duty sidecar work |
| Frame | reinforced rear frame for sidecars |
| 1936 update | rebranded Sports Tourist, shorter wheelbase |
| Road test | The Motor Cycle, May 1937 |
| Top speed | 80 mph (130 km/h) |
| Standing quarter mile | 70 mph |
| Also used by | Brough Superior SS80 and SS100 |
| End of production | 1940, outbreak of the Second World War |
Based on one source (English Wikipedia); the article is shorter than usual because the source covers the model only briefly.
History of the Matchless Model X
A V-twin for sidecars
The Matchless Model X was made from 1929 to 1940, with small changes every year. It was developed for V-twin enthusiasts and had a specially reinforced rear frame for heavy-duty sidecar work. At the end of 1936 it was upgraded and rebranded the Sports Tourist, with a shorter wheelbase frame that improved roadholding and steering.
The 1937 road test
The Motor Cycle tested the Model X in May 1937 and found the steering light but stable: even when cruising at over 60 mph it did not become so light as to need the steering damper. Performance of the 990 cc engine was described as delightful; it was not a sportster, but it could reach 80 mph and cover a standing quarter mile at 70 mph. Production ended with the outbreak of the Second World War. Before the war Brough Superior used the 990 cc Matchless V-twin, in side-valve form for the SS80 and overhead-valve form for the SS100.
Design and features
- Sidecar frame: a specially reinforced rear frame made the Model X suitable for heavy sidecar work.
- Sports Tourist: the 1936 redesign shortened the wheelbase and sharpened the steering.
- Flexible 990 cc V-twin: good for 80 mph and a 70 mph standing quarter mile, yet praised as delightful rather than sporting.
- Brough Superior connection: the same engine family powered the SS80 and SS100.
Matchless Model X versions
- Model X (1929–1936): the original touring V-twin with the sidecar frame.
- Sports Tourist (1937–1940): shorter wheelbase and improved steering.
- Sidecar outfit: the configuration the reinforced frame was designed for.
- Brough Superior SS80 and SS100: machines that used the Matchless 990 cc engine.
The Model X was one of the big V-twins that made Matchless’ name before the post-war singles such as the G80 and the G12 twin. More Matchless motorcycles are in the Matchless collection.
Sources
- Matchless Model X, English Wikipedia: production, 1937 road test, Brough Superior engines
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