Highlights
- Beautifully presented bike restored to a very high level
- Comprehensive restoration with many new and refurbished parts
- Rebuilt 499cc 34bhp engine to factory correct specification
- Starts and runs easily with updated 12V electrics and alternator
- Retains its original 1963 registration number
- Documented history back to its earliest days
- Matching engine and frame numbers
- Recently serviced prior to sale
The Appeal
Despite being praised for its precision and engineering, Velocette’s purposefully named Venom never managed the sales heights of its Midlands-built rivals from Triumph and BSA. These were bikes for the initiated, for proper enthusiasts who were prepared to master its intriguing quirks and character.
Those that did, discovered why this potent 500cc racer achieved so many podiums. The Venom was light, nimble and responsive, exhibiting a level of engineering that its rivals often lacked.
All compelling reasons to want this bike, one of the very rare survivors. It was beautifully restored a few years ago by an engineer with a well known Formula One engine supplier. The level of workmanship is impressive. It prioritised originality where possible, reusing parts and only replacing where essential. The work covered the aesthetics and the mechanicals - the engine was rebuilt to factory specifications. The result is a gorgeous matching numbers bike.
The vendor acquired the bike in early 2023 and has added some light fettling to improve the reliability, such as adding modern 12V electrics and an alternator. He tells us that it runs very well and starts - always a Venom trick to master - very well.
With all that provenance, a history file that dates back to the bike’s earliest days and a fresh service prior to sale, this is a very fine example of a characterful two wheeled rarity. One for your collection.
The vendor says:
“It's huge fun to ride, with tremendous presence both on the road and when parked. The black paintwork and new chromework look classic and very stylish. Most people comment on the 'fishtail' exhaust, which is exactly what a Velocette is known for, as well as its excellent performance.
“The 500cc engine runs well, delivering excellent performance and is surprisingly smooth for a single-cylinder engine - something Velocettes are renowned for.”
The History and Paperwork
- Originally registered in 1963 in Rochdale by local motor dealer Drinkwater
- First registered 20th April 1963
- Frame number RS17233
- First private owner was Harvey Buckley of Rochdale
- Stayed in Rochdale through a series of owners until moving to Cheshire in 1973
- Break in known history until sold as a project at auction in 2017
- Acquired from auction by an engineer with a well known Formula One engine supplier
- Restored by this keeper between 2017 and 2023
- Restoration prioritised originality using refurbished parts where necessary
- Acquired by the current keeper in March 2023
- DVLA records two keepers but this will be higher due to limits of DVLA record keepring
- Supplied with brown RF60 registration book
- Original Velocette red service manual and parts book
- Registered with the DVLA and has a modern V5C registration document
- Retains its original 1963 registration number
- HIstoric Vehicle that is exempt from road tax or MoT
- Extensive receipts and paperwork documenting the restoration
- Current keeper has lightly improved the bike including updating the electrics
- Vendor confirms this is matching numbers bike confirmed by original log book
- Always stored in a locked dry garage, ridden on dry days only, and carefully looked after
The Condition
- Beautifully restored to a very high standard and remains little changed since completion
- Few indications of age or use to paintwork - it would take little to make this bike concours
- Black paintwork with gold pinstriping and decals are factory correct
- Refreshed chromework is bright and well kept with lovely factory fishtail exhaust
- All instruments and switchgear work as they should
- The vendor states every part of the motorcycle is in very good condition
- Fittings including saddle, grips and dails are all in very good condition
- No reported faults with switchgear, dials or lights
- We are told that everything works as it should
The Mechanics
- 499cc single cylinder four stroke 34bhp engine
- Vendor states that the engine runs well, delivering good performance
- Matching numbers bike confirmed by log book
- Factory standard with light modification to electrics to improve reliability
- Alton 12v alternator, modern voltage regulator, and modern 12v battery
- Engine rebuilt to factory standards by previous engineer keeper assisted by Velocette specialists
- Starts first kick with the correct technique and performs well when running
- Recent service including oil, filter and plug
- No reported running or riding issues
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
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