Introduced in 1956, the Venom sports roadster was derived from the touring MSS. The latter disappeared from the range in 1948, re-appearing in 1954 with a new swinging-arm frame and telescopic fork. The engine too was up-dated, changing to ‘square’ bore and stroke dimensions of 86x86mm and gaining an alloy cylinder barrel and ‘head. Engine development pursued as part of the scrambles programme bore fruit in 1956 in the shape of the high-performance 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. Alongside the Scrambler was the Endurance model with a standard 3.25″ x 19″ front wheel, but with optional 21″ x WM1. Produced until the end of Velocette production in 1971, the Venom represents the final glorious flowering of the traditional British sports single, and today these supremely well engineered thoroughbreds are highly sought after.
The 1963 Velocette Venom Endurance model on offer here comes from a Southern California collection. Having been verified by the Velocette Owner’s Club’s Registrar for Endurance and Scrambler models, he confirmed that this machine is one of the last produced and retains its original 19″ front wheel. In original condition, this matching-numbers bike was just recommissioned to ready it for sale and, as can be seen in the video, rides exceptionally well. As one of only 254 Endurace models producaed, the bike is not one to be missed.
Chassis no. RS17773
Engine no. VM5719
Location: Ventura, California
