1925 Velocette Model K

This lovely Velocette Model K was the marque’s first venture into overhead camshaft power. The engine was designed by Percy Goodman in 1923 and was released in June 1925, so this particular example is the first incarnation of the Model K, which used Druid forks, as Velocette didn’t switch to Webbs until 1926.

Velocette entered the Model K into the 1925 Isle of Man TT but all three entries retired due to lubrication problems. Following this embarrassment, modifications where made to the OHC engine and Velocette returned to the TT the following year, where Alec Bennett won by 10 minutes. This was the first of three years of podium finishes with a second in 1927 and Bennett winning again in 1928. The development of the OHC Velocettes during this period went on to spawn various models and specs of this tried and tested engine, including the much sought-after KTT.

This particular example was only used for five years before it was then handed down to the younger generation to use as a field bike. After the inevitable abuse it inevitably endured, the Model K was stripped of various parts and as a result it has taken 15 years for the present owner to get it back up and running. Keen-eyed readers will notice the pressure gauge on the bevel box... this is a temporary measure while the engine is tested to make sure it is obtaining and maintaining the correct pressure.