Description
Velocette 1968 499cc OHV “ Thruxton” Frame # RS19708 Engine # VMT 785 Gearbox # 12-12815
The Truxton, designed in 1965 by Bertie Goodman, was almost an instant legend after a series of impressive results on various racing tracks, where its average speed often exceeded 100 mph. This high performance production racer, which was also sold over the counter in road going version, was a perfect choice for both the fast touring enthusiast and the racing buff. In 1965 the 500 mile race (held at castle Comb that year) was won and two years later two Thruxtons gained first and second places in the Production TT that was first staged at the Isle of Man that year. Standard equipment on the Truxton were rearward placed footrests and brake and gear pedals, close-ratio four speed gearbox, aluminium wheel rims, duplex front brake and John Tickle clip-ons. Output was a healthy 41 bhp, 5 more than the Venom. The machine could be bought in two colour combinations, the traditional black with gold lining or the more exotic version with blue frame, forks and seat and silver tank with gold lining. In all, slightly more than 1100 Thruxtons were manufactured between 1965 and 1971, when the company folded. Specifications: single cylinder OHV with pushrods, bore x stroke 86×86, compression ratio 9:1, 1 3/8 inch Amal GP carb, dry sump lubrication, magneto ignition, dynamo 6 volt 60 Watts, wet multi-plate clutch, 41 bhp@6200 rpm, top speed 172 km/h.
According to accompanying Thruxton Machine Register information this particular example has matching numbers and was dispatched from the factory on September 11, 1968 to the dealer Stevens of London. The machine has been restored and is in fine condition.