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LOT 509

1958 Velocette 350cc Viper Registration no. 827 DFC Frame no. RS10645 Engine no. VR1649

Sold for £4,600 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 509

1958 Velocette 350cc Viper
Registration no. 827 DFC Frame no. RS10645 Engine no. VR1649

1958 Velocette 350cc Viper
Registration no. 827 DFC
Frame no. RS10645
Engine no. VR1649

"One's outstanding impression is of the exceptional flexibility and smoothness of the engine – it seems almost incredible that so much docile punch should be the product of no more than one cylinder and an 8.5:1 compression ratio," enthused Motor Cycling about its test Viper, summarising characteristics that will be familiar to anyone who has ever ridden one of Hall Green's delightful high-camshaft singles. Engine development pursued as part of the scrambles programme bore fruit in 1956 in the shape of the high-performance 500cc Venom and its 350cc sibling, the Viper. The MSS frame and forks were retained for the newcomers, but full-width alloy hubs were adopted to boost braking power and smart chromed mudguards fitted to enhance the models' sporting image. The Viper ceased production in 1968, two years before the Hall Green factory closed forever. An older restoration purchased from a Mr Turner in Waterlooville, Hampshire in 1998, this Viper appears to be an honest machine and sounds very nice when running, though we are advised that the magneto pinion/taper may have worn and requires attention. The engine was rebuilt by Martin Arscott in 1993, while other noteworthy features include a Mikuni carburettor; 12-volt electrics; and a Roo (roll-on, roll-off) centre stand, the latter a vast improvement over the standard item. Currently taxed, the machine is offered with an old-style buff logbook and V5/V5C documents.

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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