Launched in 1948, as the 'motorcycle for everyman', the Velocette LE addressed the criticisms most often levelled at motorcycles: that they were noisy, dirty and needed special clothing to ride; achieving impressive levels of silence, comfort, and practicality. This LE is an example of the MkIII which was introduced for 1959, its principal improvement being a four-speed, foot-change gearbox with kick-starter. In addition, the speedometer, ammeter and light switch were moved from the leg shield to the headlamp shell. 'DGU 697B' was supplied to Oxfordshire Constabulary via Kings of Oxford and Leytons (see Dennis Frost letters on file). Owned for 30 years and currently taxed, the LE sounds good when running and is presented in 'oily rag' condition. The private vendor advises us that the oil has been changed every 500 miles and that the following components have been replaced: top gear on the gearbox main shaft and lay shaft; gearbox bearings and oil seals; and piston rings and valves. Although the aforementioned works were carried out circa 30 years ago, the machine is said never to have smoked since. Velo-8M electronic ignition was fitted in 2020. Accompanying paperwork includes expired MoTs; a V5C Registration Certificate; and invoices for a new exhaust and silencers (stainless).

This motorcycle is to be auctioned at our Live and Online Winter Sale, Hanger 113, Bicester Heritage, OX26 5HA.

SALE TIMES

Friday 11 December
Spares & Memorabilia (Lot 1 - 112) 9am
The National Motorcycle Museum Reserve Collection (Lots 201 – 252) 11am


Saturday 12 December
Motorcycles (Day 2) (Lots 501 – 708) 10am



VIEWING
In light of the current government guidelines and relaxed measures we are delighted to welcome viewing, strictly by appointment. All the lots will be on view at Bicester Heritage in our traditional Hangar 113. We will ensure social distancing measures are in place, with gloves and sanitiser available for clients wishing to view motorcycle history files.


Please contact Bonhams Motorcycles by clicking 'Message the seller' with your preferred date, time and vehicle registration number to book an appointment.


VIEWING TIMES
Wednesday 9 December 9am to 5pm
Thursday 10 December 9am to 5pm
Friday 11 December 9am to 5pm (Lots 501 – 708 only)


LIVE AND ONLINE AUCTION

Please note that whilst public viewing is available by appointment, the auction itself will be conducted from a remote saleroom, behind closed doors without public access, in accordance with the current government guidelines. All bidding will be conducted via Online, Telephone and Absentee Bidding. Please contact our Bids Department to register using the 'Message the seller' button.


COLLECTION OF PURCHASED LOTS

Motorcycle lots must be cleared from the sale venue by 2pm Sunday 13 December 2020. Limited collection is available until 2pm Monday 14 December, by appointment only. If collecting Monday, please access Bicester Heritage via the 'Main Gate', Buckingham Road, OX26 5HA. Please email us using the 'Message the seller' button with your collection or transport instructions as soon as possible following your successful bid. Failure to instruct Bonhams by the given time will result in your vehicle being uplifted to store at your expense, as detailed in the Conditions of Sale. Buyers should satisfy themselves that they have collected all relevant log books, documents and keys relating to their Lot(s) at time of collection.


AUCTION ADDRESS

Hangar 113
Bicester Heritage
Buckingham Road
Bicester
Oxfordshire
OX26 5HA