Lot 411: 1954 Velocette 192cc LE

Launched in 1948, as the �motorcycle for everyman�, the 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. Sadly for the LE, its arrival coincided with the start of the scooter boom. Asked to compete against Italian style, Velo�s ugly duckling never stood a chance, even after the sidevalve flat twin�s performance had been boosted by a capacity increase from 149 to 192cc in 1950. It was however, a big success with police forces - for whom its attributes were more important than its appearance - gaining the sobriquet �Noddy Bike� as a result. This currently non-running example was last taxed for the road in 1983 and is described as in original condition. Sold strictly as viewed, the machine comes with old-style logbook, and we are advised that a Swansea V5C has been applied for. Offered without reserve.