If ever a motorbike could wear sunglasses and a leather jacket, this would be it.
This 1952 Matchless G80S isn’t just a handsome slab of post-war British iron — it comes with a Hollywood twist. It was once owned by Bud Ekins, the Californian stuntman, off-road racing legend, and all-round motorcycle hero who just happened to be Steve McQueen’s best mate and go-to stunt double.
You know that jump in The Great Escape? That was Bud — not Steve — sailing over the barbed wire. Ekins didn’t just bring the cool to the screen, though. Off-screen, he was a champion desert racer, multiple ISDT gold medalist, and the man behind one of LA’s most famous bike dealerships. If you were in Hollywood and fancied something fast and on two wheels, chances are you went to Bud’s place.
The Iconic Motorcycle Sale – Shuttleworth, Summer 2025
1952 Matchless G80S 498cc – Ex-Bud Ekins
Estimate: £4,000–£6,000 (+ fees and VAT)
Full listing here
This particular Matchless was Bud’s UK runaround, used when visiting friends and turning up at British classic events. It ended up in the care of his good mate Jim Godfrey, and it’s stayed in the same family ever since Jim passed on.
It’s got that glorious “unrestored but loved” look — original paint, still running, and mercifully unmolested. It even comes with paperwork showing Bud’s name as a rider in a few UK events, along with a bundle of spares. The sort of bike you can roll out of the shed, fire up, and head off to a Sunday show knowing full well it’s had a far more interesting life than most people.
Specs-wise, it’s a 500cc single, as solid and straightforward as they come. Built by AMC back when British bikes had names like “G80S” and didn’t need acronyms like “EFI” or “ABS.” This one’s UK-registered (HSK 264) and MOT-exempt.
In short, this isn’t just a Matchless. It’s a bike with stories—real ones, involving movie stars, desert races, and friendships that span continents.
