It seems so extraordinary now, but earlier than the 1960s, dirt motorcycles typically had the identical chassis as their avenue-going counterparts. And if you wanted a motorbike to race, you can order a fundamental engine and frame from the factory, after which end the gadget in your very own specification.
In France, you were called a “compé-customer,” or opposition patron. And that’s how this lovely 1955 Velocette Scrambler commenced its lifestyles. Owned by a pal of Vincent Prat (of the Southsiders MC), it turned into ridden by means of a local pilot for several seasons till the frame broke beneath the stresses of off-street opposition.
This particular Scrambler become a manufacturing facility-built machine based at the MSS 500. Strength turned into boosted from 18 to 35 hp, thanks to additives from the more powerful Venom—such as the camshaft. The motorbike is also jogging a BTH Racing Magneto and an similarly rare Amal 10TT9 carburetor.
According to Vincent, the Velocette languished in the back of a garage for several years after the frame became damaged. Inside the Nineteen Sixties, a mechanic grew to become the damaged rear frame into a lever-armed shock absorber, and the Velocette became once again pressed into opposition.
The bike could not be installation efficaciously, and it became bought on in frustration. It changed into exceeded from one proprietor to any other, every one placing his personal stamp on it—consisting of a brand new seat, and a gas tank from a Motobécane.
The Velocette is now in safe hands, even though. The cutting-edge owner is part-manner thru a complete healing, and the frame and antique “mono-shock” may be well optimized.
Isn’t it good to realize that there are nevertheless people out there who care?
Photography by means of Benoit Guerry, © Guerry & Prat pix.
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