Velocette MAF
|
|
Make Model | Velocette MAF |
Year | 1941 |
Production | 1200 units, only 947 were used by the defense force |
Engine | Single cylinder, OHV, 4-stroke |
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.