What Is This Bikes History

[KTM450DS]

I just got a 1952 Matchless G-80 with the license plate 7806 FE75. The plate also has a white circle with F in the middle. How would I go about to find more information about this bike?

[saltbox alf]

That is department 75 Paris 9 Paris ÃŽle-de-France originally called 'Seine inferior' at the time the bike was manufactured. Was more than likely a Gendarmary issue.
If you have the original reg document 'carte grise' it might be possible to trace it. but not easy.
The clubs dating service for a small fee should be able to let you know where it was dispatched to and other useful details to get it registered.

[KTM450DS]

Thanks for the info. When you say get it registered is that with the club or something else. Sorry I'm new to the vintage bike world, so I have rookie questions.

[saltbox alf]

Well I presume you are in the uk? If so, then you have 6 months to get a uk regisration as it's on French plates at the moment. So you will have to import it!! Plenty of paperwork! Start now!
I hope you have a bill of sale and the french registration document, have a look on the DVLA website for how to do it.

[KTM450DS]

I'm in the U.S. it is already registered here. I'm currently going through the process of getting it licensed with a historic plate, but here that is pretty easy. The guy I got it from didn't know much or have any history on the bike just, so I'm starting from scratch.

[saltbox alf]

Ok thats fine. It will be difficult to get the French history on it. I would get in touch with the club dating service, at least it's some history.
Enjoy your bike. The USA section of the club is quite active and worth contacting.
cheers

[KTM450DS]

When you say club are you talking about Jampot?

[Don Madden]

There is a North American Section of the international AJS & Matchless Owner's Club, (often called Jampot), with our own newsletter & help. Contact the Secretary: John Diederich, cycletoys@aol.com. Cheers, Don in California.

[saltbox alf]

Thanks Don , I was not quite sure of the address, expect our inquierer will get some help there.
Interesting a French registered bike in the USA.

[KTM450DS]

Thanks Don I appreciate this information. Is there many Matchless or AJS motorcycles here in the U.S.