LOT 411

From the estate of the late David Atkinson 1958 Velocette 499cc Viper Registration no. 221 XVF Frame no. RS 10758 Engine no. VR 1659

Sold for £4,025 inc. premium

Previous Lot

Next Lot

Lot 411

From the estate of the late David Atkinson, 1958 Velocette 499cc Viper
Registration no. 221 XVF Frame no. RS 10758 Engine no. VR 1659

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|16 October 2022, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

From the estate of the late David Atkinson
1958 Velocette 499cc Viper
Registration no. 221 XVF
Frame no. RS 10758
Engine no. VR 1659

"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 MSS 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. In 1960 'Clubman' versions of both were introduced, minus the enclosure panels of the standard models, which featured a raised compression ratio, Amal TT carburettor, 'racing' magneto, rear-set footrests and a close-ratio gearbox among many other improvements.

This Viper was purchased by the late owner in 2019 and is presented in 'oily rag' condition suitable for re-commissioning or sympathetic restoration. Offered with a V5C Registration Certificate.
Key not required

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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.
Buyers Premium and Charges
Buyers Premium and Charges
Memorabilia and Spares
For Memorabilia and Spares (Lots 1-285) the Buyers Premium is 27.5% on the first £20,000 of the hammer price; 26% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £20,000 up to and including £700,000; 20% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £700,000 up to and including £4,500,000 and 14.5% of the hammer price of any amounts in excess of £4,500,000.
Motorcycles
For Motorcycles (Lots 301-336 & 401-651) the Buyers Premium will be 15% on the first £500,000 of the Hammer Price of each Lot, and 12% on the balance thereafter.
Buyers attention is drawn to Condition 7 of the Notice to Bidders. VAT at the standard rate is payable on the Premium by all Buyers, unless otherwise stated.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
From 28 June 2025, the import into the EU of non-EU property of a certain age (and in some categories above a certain value) is subject to additional requirements. Under the relevant EU Regulation, it is the Buyer's sole responsibility to assess whether any Lot meets the criteria for import into the EU. The refusal of any required Import License or Importer Statement, or any delay in obtaining such License or Statement shall not give rise to the rescission or cancelation of any Sale, nor allow any delay in making full payment for the Lot.
Payment Notices
For payment information please refer to the sale catalog.
Shipping Notices
For information and estimates on domestic and international shipping as well as export licences please contact Bonhams Shipping Department.
- Motorcycles