1958 Velorex-Oskar

Here's one of the ideas that got rejected for our Halloween theme.

Photo: eBay

This 1958 Velorex-Oskar is fabulous but just because it's skeletal doesn't mean it necessarily worked for our purpose. Well known to REVolutionaries, so we won't get into the details, this Czechoslovakian manufacturer produced vehicles from the 1950s through the early 1970s and still lives on as a maker of sidecars under the name Velorexport.

"This is a rare example of an early production Velorex Oskar as indicated by the low frame number 1596 (out of approximately 15,000 Velorexes ever built between early 1950 and late 1960s). Velorexes that come up for sale are typically later models that were produced in mid- to late 1960s.

Photo: eBay

Unlike later models, early production Oskar has springs in the front suspension instead of shock absorbers. Very few Oskars have survived.

Photo: eBay

As was often the practice in the old days, this Oskar received an upgraded engine sometime after 1963. A two-cylinder, 350 cc engine with 12V dynastarter replaced the 250cc single-cylinder making this Velorex the best combination of rarity of an Oskar with drivability of a more powerful engine.  The 350cc engine makes the Velorex capable of keeping up with modern traffic and the electric starter is infinitely better than the hand-lever attached to a kickstarter shaft.
 

Photo: eBay

The Oskar had its frame stripped and repainted in original color. The fenders were  restored and repainted, new tires and tubes fitted on repainted rims.

Photo: eBay

New wiring installed.  The engine received a thorough ($2,500-worth) overhaul by Florida-based Jawa restorer. Crank shaft was rebuilt and balanced, new bearings, seals, clutch, primary duplex chain were fitted.  The cylinder heads were re-bored and new pistons and rings fitted. The gearbox was cleaned and inspected, no additional work was required. Dynastarter was cleaned, inspected and tested. Ignition points replaced, the engine tuned. Velorex starts and drives as it should.

Photo: eBay

The Oskar needs to have the outer panels installed and the windshield fitted (the glass and rubber seal are included).  I recently imported high-quality set of “skins” that consists of  outer panels, upholstery, window frames with new windows and the convertible top as well as a set of hardware needed to attach the panels to the frame. This kit is considered to be the most authentic reproduction of the original.  I can supply  detailed pictures of an original Velorex to help the next owner with the work."

Photo: eBay