This 1967 Velocette Thruxton was a sporting motorcycle produced by Velocette between 1965 and 1971 with an advertised 41 horsepower at the crankshaft and period clocked in at 110 mph without race tuning. It was important for eligibility in endurance races such as the Thruxton 500 that competing motorcycles were genuine production machines, but although the Velocette a road-going version, it was really targeted at the racing fraternity.
The Thruxton model solidified Velocette’s reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance motorcycles capable of dominating on the track and thrilling on the road. Its success in racing and enduring appeal among riders contributed to Velocette’s legacy in the motorcycle industry. It is a classic example of British motorcycle engineering and design from the late 1960s. With its 499cc high-performance single-cylinder engine, sleek design, and robust frame, it stands out as a significant model in Velocette’s history. The Thruxton’s legacy in the motorcycling world, combined with its appeal among collectors, makes it a cherished piece of vintage motorcycle history.
Background
- Manufacturer: Velocette
- Year: 1967
- Model: Thruxton
Specifications
- Engine: The 1967 Velocette Thruxton is powered by a 499cc air-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine. This engine is tuned to produce around 41 horsepower, significantly more than the standard Venom model, allowing for competitive racing performance.
- Transmission: The motorcycle features a four-speed manual transmission with a chain drive, providing efficient power transfer to the rear wheel.
- Chassis: The Thruxton is built on a robust tubular steel frame, which offers excellent rigidity and stability, essential for high-speed racing.
- Suspension: The front suspension consists of telescopic forks, while the rear features twin shock absorbers. This setup provides a balance between comfort and handling, suitable for both racing and road use.
- Brakes: The motorcycle is equipped with drum brakes at both the front and rear, which were standard for the time and provided reliable stopping power.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The Velocette Thruxton features a streamlined and purposeful design, characterized by its sleek lines, low-profile fuel tank, and racing seat. The bike’s design emphasizes both performance and aesthetics.
- Design Elements: The motorcycle includes distinctive features such as the Velocette logo on the fuel tank, clip-on handlebars, rear-set footpegs, and a distinctive megaphone exhaust. The design reflects Velocette’s focus on producing a high-performance racing machine.
- Instrumentation: The Thruxton includes basic instrumentation, typically a speedometer and a tachometer, providing essential information to the rider during high-speed runs.
Performance
- Speed: The Thruxton is capable of reaching speeds of around 110 mph (177 km/h), making it one of the fastest production motorcycles of its time.
- Acceleration: The high-performance single-cylinder engine provides strong and rapid acceleration, ideal for competitive racing and spirited riding. The bike's lightweight construction and powerful engine make it exceptionally quick off the line.
- Handling: The Thruxton offers excellent handling characteristics, thanks to its well-designed frame and suspension system. It is known for its agility and stability at high speeds, making it a favorite among racers and performance enthusiasts.
Historical Significance
- Racing Heritage: The Velocette Thruxton was developed specifically for endurance racing, particularly the Thruxton 500-mile race after which it was named. It achieved considerable success in various racing events, cementing its reputation as a formidable racing machine.
- Engineering Innovation: The 1967 Velocette Thruxton showcased significant engineering advancements, particularly in engine tuning and frame design. The high-compression engine, along with other performance modifications, provided exceptional speed and reliability.
- Market Impact: The Thruxton was a significant model in Velocette’s lineup, offering a high-performance variant that appealed to serious racers and performance enthusiasts. Its success helped maintain Velocette’s reputation for producing high-quality motorcycles.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the 1967 Velocette Thruxton is a highly sought-after collectible among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts. Its historical significance, racing pedigree, and classic design make it a valuable addition to any collection.
- Cultural Appreciation: The Thruxton is appreciated for its role in the development of performance motorcycles and its contribution to the rich history of motorcycling. It remains an iconic model that represents the golden era of British motorcycle racing.
You may purchase a print of the 1967 Velocette Thruxton in our Riding Into History d'Elegance 2016 online gallery.
