Thanks for the comprehensive explanation for the
replacement of BMW pushrod seals (January/February 2013), an operation I have
performed many times. One point that will help DIY owners to align seals
correctly: each one has a raised line at its base. If set perfectly vertical on
the tube when offered to the crankcase, this ensures the seal is in the correct
The article on the two
Velocettes brought back fond memories of a 1962 350 Viper I owned while living
in England,
one that allegedly belonged to a Velocette employee when new. Timed at Thruxton
during a Crazy Day, it pulled a genuine 90mph, the one and only time I ever
rode it that fast. It would show many 500s a clean pair of heels and hold the
road as if glued to it. It proved smoother and mechanically quieter than
most of its contemporaries and would acquit itself well against a 350 Gold Star,
and in some cases the 500.
I wonder what happened to
771 AJW, which I sold for a mere 400 pounds? A genuine, unmolested Velocette
Viper, reliable to a fault, that showed sheer quality even after some years of
use. Here it is in its original red/black livery as delivered from the factory. MC – R. James/Florida
