Description
This motorcycle is Lot 345 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on April 25th & 26th, please see the Bonhams Motorcycles Website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 94 are to be sold from 14:30 on Saturday 25th April 2026.
Lots 201 - 353 are to be sold from 11:30am on Sunday 26th April 2026.
Public Viewing:
Available 25th & 26th April 2026 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Staffordshire County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
** 1960 Velocette 499cc Venom**
Registration no. 575 XWG
Frame no. RS13443
Engine no. VM3590
• Velocette 500 sporty model
• Re-commissioned in 2025
Velocette's initial TT victory would not be until the junior race of 1926 with Alec Bennett aboard the firm's radical overhead-camshaft four-stroke Model. Having been firmly committed to two-stroke engines up to this point, the Bennett victory sealed Velocette's change of tack, and thenceforth the company's future would be forever linked mainly to four-strokes. In 1956, the Viper and Venom sports models were introduced in 350 and 500 capacities to enliven the model range, which, by 1955 had become somewhat staid in character. This move succeeded in reviving sales a little, and no doubt led to the subsequent introduction of the Clubman models in 1960, and eventually the ultimate overhead valve sports model, the Thruxton, in the hope that Velocette's fortunes could be improved.
575 XWG was purchased by the present private vendor in early 2025, when it had been standing for some 25 years as part of a private collection. It was duly re-commissioned, and fitted with a new battery, and oils replaced. Now in running order, albeit possibly in need of the ignition timing adjusting, it is surplus to the vendor's requirements, hence the present sale. It was last started in March 2026. Documentation comprises a current V5C, and a pressed alloy number plate accompanies the bike.
Key not required
All lots are sold ‘as is/ where is’ and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
