Velocette Venom 500cc

Velocette's class-leading single from the early sixties

From a small private collection

Rear-set rests, clip-ons, and chrome mudguards

Generally very good, just needs some light recommissioning

Introduced in 1956 to replace the ageing MSS, the 500cc Venom and its little 350cc brother were logical developments of Velocette's touring singles. The Viper always lived in the shadow of the Venom which grew to become a true legend in its own lifetime as the definitive British sporting single after BSA and the venerable Gold Star had given up the fight for supremacy. Such was the popularity of the Venom its production continued until 1971 when Velocette went into liquidation.

Velocette, whilst relatively small, was a great technical innovator and many of its patented designs are commonplace on motorcycles today, including the positive-stop foot change and swinging arm rear suspension with hydraulic dampers.

This 500cc Venom appears to be in good clean condition, having been in a small collection for several years. It's been fitted with popular rear-set rests, clip-ons, and chrome mudguards giving it a slight 'café racer' feel. The paintwork and chrome are good and the whole bike looks very attractive. We understand it runs and rides smoothly with only light fettling (lights/set up etc) required to recommission completely.