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Velocette Since 1950 – The Big Singles
by Steve Wilson
Designed and published in 2004 by Panther
Publishing Ltd.
ISBN 09535098 8 5
Velocette is one of the truly celebrated British motorcycle manufacturers
(although like many, it’s true origins are slightly more Germanic
than many realise…!). Based on a remarkably low manufacturing output
of typically several hundred bikes in a year, Velocette have always managed
to maintain a particularly enthusiastic following. This following is not
only willing to accept the bike’s generic idiosyncrasies and faults,
but one that openly welcomes them and sees them as part of the bike’s
attraction. Although, of course, there are many who prefer the more easily
acquired tastes offered by the bikes of other manufacturers. For me certainly,
Velocettes have always been surrounded by a certain mystique, and I found
this book to be a very useful insight into the make. The book very
clearly describes all of the Velocette bikes manufactured since 1950,
but also provides a very readable history of the marque from the birth
of their first bike in 1904.
It clearly describes the development of all of the later models from the
humble LE to the stylish and powerful Thruxton, as well a detailed description
of the history of the company through to its final days in 1970.
This book is written by Steve Wilson; a name many of
you may recognise from his writings in the Classic Bike Guide Magazine
and, more recently, in the Real Classic journal. It was originally published
as part of a larger book, British Motorcycles Since 1950, which is now
out of print.
CONTENTS:
Velocette Ltd, MAC 350, 'new' Mss, Venom, Viper and Thruxton Venom Singles,
Production Dates, Specifications, Mac, Viper, 1954 on Mss, Venom, Thruxton,
Engine and Frame Numbers, Colour Schemes, Publications, Appendix, Owners
Clubs and Spares.
The book is very factual and is really a must if you
are lucky enough to be an owner of one of the bikes covered in this book.
I have never owned or ridden a Velocette, but have always found them attractive
and somewhat intriguing. Reading this book has made me even more determined
to go out and find one…… (Stop press - have now bought a 1939
MAC!)
£11.95
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