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Velocette MAF

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Make Model

Velocette MAF

Year

1941

Production

1200 units, only 947 were used by the defense force

Engine

Four stroke, single cylinder, OHV

Capacity

349 cc / 21.3 cub in

Bore x Stroke

68.5 x 68.5 mm

Compression Ratio 6.0:1
Cooling System Air cooled
Carburetor Amal needle-type
Lubrication Dry sump
Exhaust Single, megaphone chrome silencer

Ignition 

Lucas K2F magneto
Starting Kick start

Max Power

11 kW / 15 hp @ 6300 rpm

Clutch

Three-plate

Transmission 

4 Speed, foot change gearbox

Final Drive Chain

Frame

Single top and front down tubes and twin tube cradle

Dimensions

Length:  2159 mm / 85 in.

Width:      711 mm / 28 in.

Height:   1016 mm / 40 in.

Wheelbase

1321 mm / 52 in.

Seat height

700 mm / 27.5 in.

Front Suspension

Pre war:   Webb girder style

Rear Suspension

Hydraulic shocks

Front Brakes

7 in., sls drum

Rear Brakes

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

Front Tyre

3.25 x 19 in

Rear Tyre

3.50 x 19 in

Fuel Capacity

11.4 L / 3 US gal
Top Speed 105 km/h / 65 mph
Colours British RAF blue
Source Wikipedia, Auctionsamerica

The Velocette MAF was a military version of the Velocette MAC civilian motorcycle. The Velocette company had just began producing their 1940 civilian MAC model when wartime production requirements forced them to switch to the production of high-precision parts for military contracts. In addition, they were contracted to paint helmets for the British Army. The first military order for motorcycles came from the French government prior to the British military parts and painting contracts. All of the machines belonging to the first French shipment were lost in transit. The fall of France shortly thereafter left the Velocette company with the bulk of the 1,200 MAC motorcycles ordered by the French undelivered. The Velocette company looked to the British military to take over the order. Eventually, the British military took over the French contract MACs (designated MDD) and ordered a more militarized version, the MAF, as well. The MAF featured a reinforced frame and crankshaft shield. In addition, a lower gear and compression ratio was introduced along with a sturdier clutch assembly. The gear change sequence was reversed to coincide with other British military motorcycles. Only 950 MAF and 1,200 MACs saw service during World War II.