The 497cc bike, (estimate £80,000+), was one of only four built, and was bought direct from the AJS works race team by independent rider and race sponsor Tom Arter. Now 87, Mr Arter has retired from the circuit, and his collection was being sold by Brooks.
The bike, nicknamed for its spiked head finning, sold to British enthusiast George Beale. He also bought several spare parts for £23,000.
Two determined collectors fight for the rare 1954 AJS E90 ‘Porcupine’
UK: At the International Classic Motorcycle Show in Stafford on April 16, two determined collectors fought this rare 1954 AJS E90 ‘Porcupine’ to £142,000 (plus 15/10% buyer’s premium).