1966 Velocette Thruxton

Based on the 500cc Venom the Thruxton was a result of the race success at the Thruxton motor racing circuit 500 Mile event and was first introduced in 1964. It featured a tuned engine with revised big-valve cylinder head, Amal GP carb, clip-on handlebars, rear-set footrests and a twin-leading-shoe front brake as standard. 

It is thought that only 1100 were built by the factory with a further 60 or so bikes being  assembled by main dealers, the high cost when new only being available to a few wealthy  buyers. Even with recent prices receding genuine examples still command attention from collectors as one of the most sought after 500cc ‘Café Racer’ stye post War bikes. 

This fine example was despatched from the factory on 1st April 1966 to Velocette dealer L Stevens of Goldhawk Road, Shepherd's Bush, London and was originally finished in blue and silver. It retains its original frame, engine, gearbox, and registration number, as confirmed by the accompanying Velocette Thruxton Machine Register certificate. 

Comprehensively restored in 2015 which included a bottom-end engine rebuild by Nick Payton the bike has also received a recent service and much fettling including the front brake and the front forks rebuilt, carb ultrasonically cleaned, new rear shocks with colour matching shrouds, new gearbox sleeve gear bearing, clutch overhaul with new plates and new tyres fitted. In addition to this the Smiths instruments have been rebuilt.

This very fine and correct example is in great running order, currently fitted with a set of ‘Swan Neck’ clip-on handlebars the originals are also supplied along with a spare exhaust system and a small history file with the UK V5C logbook.