1949 E90 AJS Porcupine ($7 Million)

The Magnificent 1949 E90 AJS Porcupine

Introduction:

    In the world of vintage motorcycles, there are few machines that evoke as much awe and admiration as the 1949 E90 AJS Porcupine. With its sleek design, groundbreaking engineering, and extraordinary racing pedigree, this motorcycle has become a symbol of excellence in the realm of two-wheeled racing history. The 1949 E90 AJS Porcupine recently made headlines when it was sold at an auction for a staggering $7 million, solidifying its status as one of the most valuable motorcycles in existence. In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating story of this iconic machine and explore the reasons behind its astronomical price tag.

A Brief History:

    The AJS Porcupine was the brainchild of a team of engineers at Associated Motor Cycles (AMC), a British motorcycle manufacturer. Introduced in 1945, it was designed to compete in the fiercely competitive world of motorcycle racing. The Porcupine derived its name from the distinctive appearance of its cylinder heads, which were adorned with numerous finned projections, resembling the quills of a porcupine.

    In terms of technical specifications, the E90 Porcupine featured a 500cc transverse twin engine with horizontally opposed cylinders, overhead camshafts, and a unique dual exhaust system. This setup, along with its advanced suspension and frame design, allowed the motorcycle to deliver exceptional performance and handling on the racetrack.

Racing Legacy:

    Although only a limited number of Porcupines were produced due to the high costs of production, their impact on motorcycle racing was immense. The AJS Porcupine made its debut at the 1949 Isle of Man TT, one of the most prestigious motorcycle races in the world. Riding the Porcupine, Fergus Anderson achieved a remarkable victory, claiming the first place in the Senior TT race. This triumph marked the first time a British motorcycle had won the event since 1939, solidifying the Porcupine's reputation as a true racing machine.

    Despite its initial success, the Porcupine faced fierce competition from Italian manufacturers such as Gilera and MV Agusta. Nevertheless, the motorcycle continued to demonstrate its prowess, securing numerous victories and podium finishes throughout the early 1950s. However, as the era of four-stroke engines approached, the Porcupine became obsolete, and production ceased in 1954.

The $7 Million Price Tag:

    The recent sale of a 1949 E90 AJS Porcupine for $7 million at an auction drew attention from motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. But what factors contribute to such an exorbitant price tag?

1. Rarity: 

    The limited production run of the AJS Porcupine means that only a handful of these motorcycles exist today. Rarity alone significantly drives up their value.

2. Racing Pedigree: 

    The Porcupine's triumphs on the racetrack, particularly its victory at the Isle of Man TT, have elevated its desirability among collectors. Its historical significance as a British racing icon adds further allure.

3. Originality and Condition: 

    The value of any vintage vehicle hinges on its authenticity and condition. The $7 million Porcupine is a well-preserved, mostly original machine, retaining the charm and character of its heyday.

4. Historical Significance: 

    As a groundbreaking motorcycle, the Porcupine represents a pivotal moment in motorcycle engineering and design. Collectors often seek out such historically significant machines to showcase in their collections.

Conclusion:

    The 1949 E90 AJS Porcupine stands as a testament to the innovation, engineering prowess, and rich heritage of the golden era of motorcycle racing. Its recent sale for an astounding