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Velocette MOV

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Make Model

Velocette MOV

Year

1933 - 48

Engine

Four stroke, single cylinder, OHV

Capacity

248 cc / 15.1 cub in

Bore x Stroke

68.5 x 68.5 mm

Compression Ratio 6.75:1
Cooling System Air cooled
Carburetor Amal needle-type
Lubrication Dry sump
Exhaust Single, large stainless steel silencer

Ignition 

Miller dynamo
Starting Kick start

Max Power

8.8 kW / 12 hp @ 5000 rpm

Clutch

Three-plate

Transmission 

4 Speed, initially hand changed, later by foot

Final Drive Chain
Gear Ratios 1st 16.1 / 2nd 11.1 / 3rd8.45 / 4th 6.35:1

Frame

Single top and front down tubes and twin tube cradle

Front Suspension

Webb forks with shock absorbers and steering damper

Rear Suspension

Spring loaded seat

Front Brakes

6 in., drum

Rear Brakes

6 in., drum
Front Wheel 19 in., spokes
Rear Wheel 19 in., spokes

Front Tyre

3.25 x 19 in

Rear Tyre

3.25 x 19 in

Fuel Capacity

11.4 L / 3 US gal
Top Speed 126 km/h / 78 mph
Colours Black/chrome
Source Wikipedia

In 1933, the company decided to introduce a new line of overhead valve (OHV) machines, in order to cut production costs and make a more affordable motorcycle. The K series was expensive to produce, requiring selective hand assembly of the shaft-and-bevel camshaft drive; it was determined that a simpler OHV design would be quicker to build and require less skilled labour to assemble. The first of these new machines was the MOV, using a 250 cc engine of 'square' dimensions (68 mm bore and 68 mm stroke). It was an immediate sales success, having lively performance for the time (78 mph or 126 km/h), and proved a reliable machine with excellent road manners. From this machine, by lengthening the stroke of the crankshaft, the Velocette MAC 350 cc was introduced in 1934.

A 350 cc version of the MOV was the basis for the company's World War II military motorcycles.