Post Sale Update: This Velocette sold for $15,655 after 15 bids on eBay in Trenton, New Jersey.
Introduced in 1955, the Velocette Venom had a distinctive claim to fame – in 1961, a factory-prepped Venom Clubman was the first motorcycle to average over 100 MPH over the course of 24 hours. The challenge was completed at the 1.7 miles concrete oval track at Montlhéry, and it was achieved by a team of seven riders.
The record-setting bike is actually on display at the National Motorcycle Museum in England. I got to see it for myself two summers ago when Vy and I toured the UK on a Triumph Explorer:
The 24 hour run rejuvenated sales, and the Venom would go on to be produced until 1970. 5,721 units were built. Basic specs for the Venom include 34 horsepower from a 499cc OHV single, 4-speed transmission, and a dry weight of 390 pounds.
This example (VIN: 19114) was originally sold in California as a Veeline model (with a full fairing), however the fairing, rearsets, and handlebars were removed in the late 1960s by the original owner and are no longer available. The modified parts (which also include extra padding in the aftermarket seat) are still on the bike now. The engine was rebuilt in the early 70s, and after the original owner passed away the bike went to his friend, Sonny Angel. Sonny sold it in 2013 and it’s seen a few owners since then, but it still appears quite similar to when it did when it was modified in the late 60s. The seller cleaned the carb and installed some new cables, saying that it “starts easily and runs great” with “no strange noises or smoke.” All the bodywork and paint is original, as are the carb and Lucas magneto. It definitely shows its age in the paint and some of the chrome, but I’m a fan of how this has been preserved.
Find this Venom Clubman for sale in Trenton, New Jersey with bidding up to $4,333 and the reserve not yet met here on eBay.