1937 Velocette MAC

Lot details
Registration No: HV 7681
Frame No: 5378
Engine No: 2782
cc: 348
MOT Expiry Date: T.B.A.

During the early part of the nineteen thirities it became apparent to Velocette that they required a range of machines to fill the gap between the two stroke GTP 250 and the over head cam models. Intended to appeal to the enthusiast, they needed to offer good performance and handling whilst, in the tough economic times then prevailing, represent good value. The first of the new series became available during 1933. Typed the MOV, the new machine displaced 248cc and featured a high gear driven camshaft operating short pushrods for the fully enclosed over head valves. The new power unit, which featured a rear mounted magneto and front mounted dynamo was installed in a new frame together with a four speed gearbox. Capable of 60 mph and finished to the usual high Velocette standard it quickly established itself as one of the premier sporting 250's and led to the introduction for the 1934 season of the MAC, a 350cc class machine that shared its siblings cycle parts. The larger capacity was acheived by increasing the stroke to 96mm instead of the MOV's 68.25mm, which, with a bore of 68mm, the same as the MOV, gave a capacity of 349cc. The MAC utilised a four speed footchange gearbox from the outset, a feature adopted by the MOV for the 1934 season. The new model would continue with only detail changes until the Second World War halted production and would return to the catalogue with the end of hostilities in 1945, ultimately providing the basis for the sporting 350cc Viper.

This example of the MAC left the Hall Green works during 1937 and was restored thirty years ago to an exacting standard and has seen only limited use on the road since, forming part of a noted Velocette enthusiasts collection for much of that time. It is presented in the correct black and gold livery with chromed wheel rims with black centres lined in gold peculiar to that year, those fitted to 36 and 38 season machines were finished in black . The frame and engine numbers correspond to those shown in the buff log book supplied with the machine together with a Swansea V5.