A J Stevens & Co created some of the most advanced and exhilarating bikes back in the day, and the mechanical masterpiece that became known as the Big Port is no exception. AJS motorcycles were popular around the world, and many were shipped far and wide from the busy factory in Wolverhampton. This is a short story about one such machine, that is proudly owned by Jehangir Foroogh in India.
words by Jehangir Foroogh
I am a Zoroastrian Parsee from Mumbai, India. I had a pharmaceutical business, but my immense love for motorcycles has always been a defining part of my life. This passion is hereditary—my father owned a Triumph Tiger and a BSA Golden Flash. He gifted me a Norton Model 50 as my first motorcycle, and that marked the beginning of my journey.
One of my most prized possessions is my AJS H7, a 1927 350cc, 3-speed hand-gear, OHV engine race machine. It’s a rare sight in India, and so are its spares and mechanics. I believe only a couple of these bikes survive today, and mine is in perfect running condition. I occasionally take her out for a ride on quiet days, avoiding traffic and the heat.
The story of this bike began when I visited my mechanic one day and saw the AJS in a completely unrestored, junk condition—ripped apart and neglected. It was love at first sight. To my luck, the owner, also a Parsee gentleman and someone I knew, was willing to sell her to me. She had been sitting untouched in his garage for 31 years—a true barn find.
Restoring her became a serious project. Both my mechanic and I were unfamiliar with the mechanisms of an OHV engine, the total-loss lubrication system, and the foot oil pump. With help from the AJS Club, books, YouTube, and other resources, we worked tirelessly for a year and a half. Some parts had to be shipped from the UK.
After many struggles, we finally brought her back to life. The day she was ready, I rode her for the first time. It was my first experience with a hand-gear motorcycle, and I was on cloud nine. I showed her to my family, and everyone welcomed her with love.
Riding her was an incredible experience—light and easy to manoeuvre through the lanes of Mumbai. On my first long ride, I was awestruck by her raw power and speed. The sound of her engine turned heads, and fellow bikers followed me, asking about her. It was a proud and unforgettable moment.
Her restoration has earned her numerous accolades:
- 2008: 1st place, Best Restored, VCCCI Rally
- 2009: 1st place, Best Maintained, VCCCI Rally
- 2013: 1st place, Racing Category, Cartier Concours d’Elegance (Third International)
- 2016: 1st place, 21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally
At the Cartier Concours d’Elegance, I had the honor of meeting legends like Giacomo Agostini, Phil Read, and John Abraham, who autographed my bike as well as Sir Ratan Tata’ signing my AJS bike photograph.
According to the AJS & Matchless Owners Club, she has matching numbers and all original factory-fitted parts. She brings me immense joy every time I see or ride her. She holds a special place in my family’s heart and is proudly parked inside my home, a symbol of love and pride.
Thank you to Jehangir for taking the time to tell us about this wonderful old bike. If you have a similar story, or one that you would like to share, please feel free to get in touch.
an article by The Girder Club
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