c.1972 VéloSolex 5000 49cc Moped
Frame no. 7045975 Engine no. 9028857

The Summer Sale - LIVE AND ONLINE - BICESTER HERITAGE|16 August 2020, 10:00 BST|Bicester, Bicester Heritage

c.1972 VéloSolex 5000 49cc Moped
Frame no. 7045975
Engine no. 9028857

Developed in the late 1930s, the French VéloSolex first appeared in 1946, just in time to exploit the post-war boom in moped sales. In what many considered an act of Gallic eccentricity, the designers chose not to put the engine in the conventional position in the centre of the frame, but above the front wheel, which the single-cylinder two-stroke motor drove via a roller. The VéloSolex was also assembled in the UK but was nowhere near as successful over here where it was subject to the same licensing requirements as a motorcycle. Pressure from rival manufacturers eventually forced the introduction of more conventional models but the original VéloSolex remained an immutable fixture of the range. Introduced for 1971, the 5000 model, as seen here, was a restyled development of the preceding 3800 boasting smaller (16") wheels. There are no documents with this machine, which is offered for re-commissioning.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

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Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.
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N	NOVA declaration
	If purchased by a UK resident, this machine is subject to a NOVA declaration, whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee of £350 + VAT to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice.