1954 Victoria 350cc V35 Bergmeister, Registration no. not UK registered Frame no. 35-2475 Engine no. 35-2475

Important Collectors' Motorcycles and Spares
1954 Victoria 350cc V35 Bergmeister
Registration no. not UK registered
Frame no. 35-2475
Engine no. 35-2475
Founded in Nürnberg, Germany in 1886, bicycle-maker Victoria added motorcycle manufacturing to its portfolio towards the end of the 19th Century. The firm used proprietary engines initially before acquiring the means to make its own in the late 1920s. Small-capacity two-strokes formed the mainstay of production immediately after WW2 and then in 1951 Victoria announced its first four-stroke model of the post-war era: the V35 Bergmeister (Mountain Master) though a lengthy and expensive development process mean that deliveries were delayed for a couple of years. Designed by Richard Küchen, the V35 was powered by a transversely mounted v-twin engine, and featured shaft final drive, and an unusual four-speed, chain-and-sprockets transmission (there are no gears in the 'gearbox') an arrangement Küchen had used while employed by Zündapp in the early 1930s. Modern for the times, the V35 boasted plunger rear suspension, a telescopic front fork, and excellent full-width alloy brakes.

Offered from a private collection, this example of a rarely encountered German marque appears to be an earlier restoration that would respond well to detailing. The paintwork shows some cracking in places; there is light pitting to the chrome; the fuel tank filler cap has a small dent; and the speedometer needle broken. The engine turns over (with compression). Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's originality, correctness, and mechanical condition prior to bidding. There are no documents with this Lot, which is sold strictly as viewed.