I've woke up last Friday with the need to own a Velosolex . I know quite a few on I2F have a Solex or two, so can you lot give me advice on what model to buy, what to look for, prices and ease of availability of parts and what exactly is required to import one in to Blighty? In fact, just any information really. Cheers guys.

PS:- Admins, I've posted this in 'Flea Market', if you want to move it to 'Technical', that's ok with me, I've no idea where it would best be placed.

In Holland most parts are available for a 1700/2200 and 3800 type Solex.
1700/2200 is the model with the round frame, the 3800 has a square one. Just what look you prefer.

Both engines have a automatic (traffi)clutch, so no need to lift the engine when stopped at a trafficlight orso.

These types are also the most common to find, for normal prices.

Have fun
http://www.leboncoin.fr/motos/offres/br ... velo+solex

Also worth mentioning that the 3800 got a drum rear brake, and later ones had a drum front, too. 2200s have bicycle-style rim brakes both ends, which are just not up to the performance. And that's quite some achievement...

If you import one, UK registration is fairly straightforward. http://www.thebuzzingclub.co.uk/ is the NACC - essential for a DVLA-recognised dating certificate if you're registering an import from a country where they don't need to be registered.

Don't be tempted by a "new-style" one from Hungary or China. Get a proper original French one. Parts are easy enough from a variety of web-based suppliers.

This rustic number is UK registered & on the road;




Look at the weeds! He needs to get some membrane down before turning his front garden into a giant cat litter tray...





http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VELOSOLEX-BLACK-/ ... 3360ab5271

"Engine cover marked 3300 but fitted with a 2200 engine from new." - Oh, yes... Forgot about those. 3300 is an interim - 3800 frame with 2200 engine. The 3800 engine has a bit more oomph. <thinks> Less lack-of-oomph.

Cheers chaps. So I should go for a 3800? Are they old enough to be 'Historic Tax'? I don't fancy paying the silly prices that DVLA demand, for what is only a bicycle. What sort of price should I expect to pay for insurance?

They're the most common, but the most sensible. And, let's face it, the concepts of "sensible" and "VeloSlowlex" aren't the most natural of bedfellows.



Some are, some aren't. The 3800 started in 1966.



Tax for a post-73 Slowlex is £15/year. You've still got to pay for a bike MOT (£29), insurance etc.



Ha. That's where it all gets really silly. If you've got a bike licence, and another motorbike, they'll probably add it on for free. I don't - check your licence for class P (moped), you might be old 'nuff to have been given a full licence for free with your car test - so last time I asked for a quote for mine ('62 2200), they asked for north of £200. Seriously. No, I didn't take 'em up on it...

Just checked my licence-(passed car test in 1990)-and Category P is there in black and pink . Just need to find one now.

If you like square frames, yes

1700/2200 frame:


3800 frame: