1960 AJS Model 8 350 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Built around AJS's sport motorcycle platform, the 1960 AJS Model 8 350 pairs a 348 cc (21.2 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 21 HP (15.3 kW) at 6,250 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through chain final drive. With a specific output of 60.3 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the Model 8 350 measures 153 kg (337 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.14 HP/kg (7.29 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 740 mm (29.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,345 mm (53 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 12.5-liter (3.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's AJS archive, this model family spans 4 indexed model years from 1960 to 1963, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
60.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.14 HP/kg (7.29 kg/HP)
Standover Height
740 mm (29.1 in)
Engine
Displacement348.0 ccm (21.23 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power21.0 HP (15.3 kW)) @ 6250 RPM
Compression7.5:1
Bore x Stroke72.0 x 82.5 mm (2.8 x 3.2 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor
LubricationWet sump
CoolingAir
Transmission
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet multiplate
Chassis
Frame TypeSingle cradle-steel
Front SuspensionTelescopic
Rear SuspensionSwingarm-two shocks
Wheelbase1345 mm (53.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre3.25-18
Rear Tyre3.25-18
Front BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
WheelsSpoked
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight153.0 kg (337.3 pounds)
Power/Weight0.1373 HP/kg
Seat Height740 mm (29.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
