1949 Velocette LE Mk I

Entirely unconventional but aimed at the everyman who perhaps had never ridden a motorcycle before, Velocette’s LE certainly stood out from its contemporaries when it arrived in 1948. It’s box frame and voluminous mudguard design was striking but it was the technology that is worth noting: the telescopic forks and an adjustable suspension were certainly innovative for the late Forties, and the ‘conceived as a whole’ engine, gearbox, drive shaft and bevel box were a single unit.

From a small private Devonshire collection, this LE Mk I was the subject of a photographic restoration which, we understand, included the engine and braking system. It remains in very smart condition and after a period of storage, we are told starts and runs well. We should point out that the windscreen does not include the upper Perspex section, but apart from that, the Velocette represents very good value for money.

The file includes a parts list (plus an additional copy), copy pages of the handbook, sundry invoices, the aforementioned photographs of the restoration and the V5C registration certificate.

Auction Date: 7 June 2018