• Lovely restored example

 • Classic British single stroke with impressive performance for its age

 • Matching numbers

 • Very good condition

The MSS was Birmingham-based Velocette’s all-new model for the late 1930s, introduced in 1935 and offering good comfort and reliable, high-speed touring performance. Its success was stymied by the Second World War, during which Velcoette’s factory was turned over to arms manufacture.

The MSS returned to production immediately post-war and for a while saw a moderate boom, with strong sales in the early 1950s and successful US exports, as well as providing the basis for the record-breaking Velocette Venom, which achieved a 100mph endurance record in 1961. 

But by then, single-cylinder bikes were old hat, and the MSS was struggling to compete with the more advanced twin-cylinder bikes from other British makers. By 1967, the writing was on the wall and while Velocette officially continued for another three years, it had failed to make a profit. 

A sad swan song for one of the most quality-focused bike manufacturers in the UK – something that was core to Velocette’s appeal back then and is even more so today, with collectors favouring not only the impeccable build but also the rarity of Velocette’s models.

Venom aside, the MSS is the most sought-after – the high point of the company’s model history and one that’s increasingly collectable. 

 • Fully restored by a previous keeper

 • Matching numbers bike

 • Low miles since restoration

 • UK V5C

 • Tax and MOT exempt

Not much is known of the bike’s early history but it was subject to a full and comprehensive restoration. 

It comes with a UK V5C in the owner’s name and is both tax and MOT exempt. Prior to its restoration it had been off the road for many years, pre-dating digital tax and MOT records. 

 • Excellent condition

 • Superb restoration

 • Barely used since

Having been stripped down and comprehensively restored, the Velocette is impressively well-presented and is in terrific overall condition. The frame, seat and mudguards are in good condition. There is however some slight rust on the front mudguard and the grab rail shows slight chrome imperfection.

 • 499cc air-cooled single

 • Drum brakes

 • Runs well with no known problems

The Velocette’s single-cylinder engine has an unmistakable sound and it is also surprisingly powerful for both its capacity and its single-stroke design. It has an Alton electric starter, a Criterion ignition system and a twin leading shoe front brake.

It runs sweetly with no known problems and is reported by the vendor to be an excellent bike to ride.

This is a lovely, restored example of a rare and interesting bike, presented in excellent restored condition and ready to use, show or enjoy.  It’s in great order and would make the perfect addition to any 1950s bike collection, as well as being a lively and enjoyable bike that, despite its age, is still more than capable of holding its own in the cut and thrust of modern traffic.