Post Sale Update: This Clubman sold for $15,000 after 25 bids on eBay.
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: VM6519C) has 19,730 miles, though the seller added a new speedo 201 miles ago as part of a cosmetic restoration that included rebuilt Smith gauges and several new parts: seat, rear hub, sprockets, chain, Lucas tail light, and mud guards. The bike also has some upgrades: 12V alternator conversion, Mistral Engineering electronic ignition, and a belt drive primary conversion.
Find this Venom Clubman for sale in Portland, Oregon with bidding up to $15,000