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1976 Veloto

This was one of the first entrants into the new field of 50 cc microcars, which new French regulations involving three categories opened up.

Initially a manufacturer of batteries, Jean Bellier built his first vehicle in 1968, a small, Solex-powered 3-wheeler intended for childrens' road safety training.

Introduced at the Salon de Jouet of 1972, the Buggy F85, again Velosolex-powered with friction drive to the rear wheels, was exported to 48 countries until 1976.

The Salon d'Automobile of that year saw the introduction of the Veloto, at the time the only two-seater able to be driven without a license. It was essentially aimed at retirees who had given up driving.

Colours offered were sky blue, orange, mustard yellow, white and prairie green, all with a rather tent-like black top.

Manufacturer: Societe BEL-Motors, Les Sables-d'Olonne, France

Model: Veloto Type BL

Motor: Motobecane Body : Polyester
Years Built: 70th No. Cylinders: 1 Chassis: Metal
No. Produced: some 100 Displacement: 49 cc Suspension Front: Rubber Ring
No. Surviving: n/a Horsepower: approx. 3 Suspension Rear: None
Length: 2 100 mm Gearbox: Variable-Speed Transmission Steering: Rack & Pinion
Width: 1 050 mm Starter: Electric Brakes: Cable
Weight: 120 kg Electrics: 12 v 4 Wheels: 2 x 16"
Interior: Bench Ignition: Coil Top Speed: 40 kph

© 2002