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Naked Motorcycles

1988Matchless G 80 E

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The 1988 Matchless G 80 E is a lightweight classic single-cylinder motorcycle ideal for enthusiasts seeking vintage British character and simplicity. Powered by a 494cc air-cooled engine producing 34 horsepower, it excels as a nimble commuter and weekend rider. Best known for its authentic retro styling and manageable handling, it appeals to riders valuing classic aesthetics over modern performance.

Capacity
494.0 ccm
Engine
Single
Gearbox
5-speed
Wet weight
172.0 kg
Seat height
Not on record
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Power
34.0 HP (25.0 kW) @ 7300 RPM
⇄ Compare with another bike + Add to garage All model years
Other years 1988 1989 1990

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 18Agility 71Comfort 55Off-road 15Touring 25Road manners 60
Off-road & trail15%
Cornering65%
City riding75%
Daily riding70%
Touring25%
Two-up20%
Track20%
Best for
Built for everyday road riding - commuting, errands and weekend rides - with an upright, unfaired riding position.
Built for
A naked bike from Matchless with a 494cc engine; its character is versatile and engaging, with 34 hp on tap.
Not ideal for
Not ideal for long motorway journeys at speed or for off-road riding.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
494.0 ccm
Power
34.0 HP (25.0 kW) @ 7300 RPM
Engine type
Single
Power/weight ratio
0.1977 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke
89.0 x 79.4 mm
Compression
9.2:1
Cooling system
Air
Valves per cylinder
4
Torque
Not on record - add it
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Chain
Performance
Top speed
135.0 km/h (83.9 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Wet weight
172.0 kg
Fuel capacity
15.00 litres
Seat height
Not on record - add it
Dry weight
Not on record - add it
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Dual disc
Rear brakes
Expanding brake
Front tyre
100/90-19
Rear tyre
110/90-18

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 198819891990
Capacity 494 cc 494 cc 494 cc
Fuel capacity 15 L 15 L 15 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Matchless G 80 E?

The 1988 Matchless G 80 E has a Capacity of 494.0 ccm (30.15 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Matchless G 80 E have?

The 1988 Matchless G 80 E has a Power of 34.0 HP (25.0 kW) @ 7300 RPM.

How many gears does the Matchless G 80 E have?

The 1988 Matchless G 80 E has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

How much does the Matchless G 80 E weigh?

The 1988 Matchless G 80 E has a Wet weight of 172.0 kg (379.2 pounds).

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