Description
This motorcycle is Lot 203 - To be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on 26th & 27th April, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 147 are to be sold from 14:00 on Saturday 26th April 2025.
Lots 201 - 410 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 27th April 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 26th & 27th April 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
Lot 203
1956 Velocette 499cc Venom
Registration no. XSL 712
Frame no. RS8056
Engine no. VM1111
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.
XSL 712 was acquired for the vendor's collection in 2019, where it has remained on static display. The engine turns over, however, due to its period of inactivity, the new owner will need to undertake re-commissioning and safety checks before putting it back on the road, hence sold strictly as viewed. Presenting in the rare and attractive Dove Grey (beige) optional colour, it also benefits from a twin-leading shoe front brakeplate and an 'Alfin' alloy cylinder barrel. Documents comprise an old green RF60 duplicate log book, current V5C, and some expired MoT certificates. 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.
