Description
This motorcycle is Lot 216 - 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 216
1957 Velocette 499cc Venom
Registration no. Unregistered (see text)
Frame no. RS6543 (see text)
Engine no. VM1617
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.
This Venom was purchased by the owner in 1978, and was used for local club runs. He kept a note book for the bike from 1998 until September 2021, when it was last used, logging details of all work done to the bike. He fitted an Alton electric starter in 2018, and fitted electronic ignition in 2019/ 20. At the time of consignment, the Velo had broken a tooth on the electric starter, but a new cog had been ordered and should be fitted by the time of sale. In view of the lack of use in the last few years, the machine will require recommissioning and basic safety checks prior to returning to the road, hence sold strictly as seen.
Despite the motorcycle's accompanying history file including a current V5C, an old V5C, an old green RF60 log book, the aforementioned vehicle maintenance note book, and some expired MoT certificates - It should be noted that a change of frame has occurred at some time (prior to the present ownership), the frame number recorded on the V5C is RS9474. Accordingly, as the machine's frame number does not match the registration documents, the machine is now offered unregistered and prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the validity of the VRN prior to bidding. Key present.
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.
