The Velocette MSS was introduced in 1935 as the largest and most expensive of the pushrod single range.
Because the existing 350 MAC frame wasn’t thought adequate to handle the power of the 500 cc engine, Velocette fitted their new motor into the existing KTT racer frame. The MSS also benefited from the racing bikes’ heavyweight gearbox. The double damper Webb forks (later years saw a single side damped version of these forks) were also dimensionally similar to the race bike.
The rigid MSS model soldiered on past the war and was eventually discontinued in 1948. Telescopic forks had replaced the girders in late 1947.
The example being auction is a mid 1947, Australian delivered example. One of the last few to be fitted with girder forks. These 1947 models are regarded as the best braked of the MSS years as for that year only they used a cast iron front hub to replace the earlier pressed steel version.
The bike’s early history is unknown other than it was delivered to the Sydney distributor, Schoffields. The current owner, a long time member of the Velocette club purchased the bike as a basket case from eBay around 2010. As purchased, the engine had been fitted with replacement 1936 crankcases. A full restoration was commenced and the club technical officer, Norm Trigg, sourced a set of 1947 crankcases and the correct crank to go with these cases. A complete gearbox was built up from NOS parts that had been collected by the owner over the years.
The following work was carried out on the motor : head rebuild with new valves, k-linered valve guides, Fin repairs on the barrell, rebuilt rocker system, early MSS cam fitted, followers changed out with decent s/h ones, new main bearings, oil pump rebuilt. Everything was powder coated, two pack painted or chromed as appropriate. The owner preferred the 1937 only black band with gold lining wheel rims so had the wheels built this way with re chromed rims and stainless steel spokes.
The magneto was rebuilt by Bob Gardener and a new muffler fabricated by Neville Smith.
Although built for regular riding as a rally bike, it has won several awards. It has won best over 500 cc Velocette at the All British Rally and the Best Rigid Velo at the Velocette Club “submarine” rally.
This is a regularly ridden, reliable Velo built up by an experienced restorer. The clutch has been upgraded with bonded friction plates, roller thrust bearing and slotted plain plates. It no longer is afflicted with the Velocette reputation for hard to adjust clutches. The original carb has been sleeved and the bike idles easily at low revs after a few minutes warming up. It has been a reliable rally bike. On a smooth open road it will cruise at 100 km/hr with a vibration free, turbine-like engine note that is reminiscent of the later short stroke Venom models.
To protect your investment vehicle bidders should consider at a minimum replacement of fuel, oil, fluids, filters and thorough brake inspection as vehicles may have been stationary for some time. Vehicles are sold as is off the floor – unregistered. No warranty expressed or implied, sold with all or any faults, and where applicable sold with Australian Government Import Approval. NK