1967 Velocette 0.3L Petrol · WAR 23E

The most recent DVSA MOT on the Velocette was carried out on 11 June 2013 and resulted in a full pass with no recorded defects. Across the four documented tests between 2007 and 2013 the vehicle consistently achieved a clean result, indicating that, at least up to that point, the owner was maintaining the motorcycle to a level that satisfied the statutory safety criteria. There is no evidence of a deteriorating trend; rather the pattern suggests a stable maintenance regime during the recorded period, although the absence of any MOTs after 2013 leaves the current condition unverified. Mileage information is not supplied, so an evaluation of annual usage cannot be quantified. For a machine of 1967 vintage, the lack of recorded kilometres could imply either very low, occasional riding typical of a collector’s item, or simply incomplete paperwork. If the bike has been ridden sparingly, components such as the engine oil, brake fluid and fuel system may have suffered from age‑related degradation rather than wear. Conversely, if the machine has accumulated a high kilometre total in a short span, wear on the pistons, bearings and valve train would be accelerated and could be hidden by the clean MOT history. Prospective buyers should therefore seek any service logs, receipts or owner recollection that can shed light on actual mileage and usage patterns. Given the clean MOT record but the considerable age of the Velocette, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is essential. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or loss of pliability, as rubber deteriorates with time even when unused; any hard spots or bulges could lead to sudden failure. Check the battery for sulphation, leakage or excessive self‑discharge and consider a load test; an old lead‑acid unit may struggle to supply sufficient cranking current and could cause intermittent ignition issues. Inspect the fuel tank and carburettor for rust, varnish or stale fuel residues, and verify that the fuel lines are free of cracks and that the petcock operates smoothly, since fuel system decay can cause hard starting or mis‑firing. Further mechanical scrutiny should focus on the suspension and steering bearings, brake system and exhaust. Look for loosened or corroded front fork oil seals, worn bushings and any play in the swingarm pivots, which would manifest as clunking or vague handling under load. The drum or disc brakes must be examined for surface glazing, rusted linings or seized caliper pistons; a test ride should reveal any pulsation, reduced lever feel or uneven bite. Finally, assess the exhaust for perforations, rusted mounts and the condition of the silencer, as leaks can affect emissions and produce a loud, uneven note. Addressing any of these time‑related items before purchase will help ensure the classic remains both road‑worthy and enjoyable to ride.