The A, B, C of Vincent Rapides.
The post-war Vincent Rapide Series B and Series C need no introduction; they were the fastest standard motorcycles in production when launched in 1946. A mechanical marvel with its unit-construction 998cc V-Twin engine that doubled as a structural frame member eliminating the traditional frame. The legendary images of Rollie Free at the Bonneville Salt Flats are forever etched in people’s memory.

This particular Series C Rapide is an ‘interim’ model produced in 1949, when the Vincent factory had already introduced the Series C but still had Series B stock on the shelves. According to the factory records, this particular Rapide is indeed a Series C model delivered with Girdraulic forks from the factory but also with a Series B Rear frame, HRD branded petrol tank and crankcase and timing cover with the embossed HRD logo.

The Vincent Rapide has matching numbers for frame and engine (including matching engine halves), however the frame number on the UFM (Upper Frame) is a later stamping.
A copy of the Works Order Form and a Certificate from the Vincent Owners Club follows the bike. Furthermore old tax discs from the 1950s and MOT test certificates follow the bike. Interestingly, a temporary motorcycle tax disc from the Isle of Man for 1954 is also with the Vincent; It could well be that the original owner visited the Isle of Man TT on this Vincent in 1954.

The Rapide has come out of long-term, enthusiast ownership of 25 years and has had just four registered owners from new.

In the late 1990s, the Vincent was completely restored and has since covered a mere 1623 Miles. The Vincent was restored to a very high level and therefore remains in beautiful condition cosmetically. Chrome and paint in impeccable condition. The original 19inch Dunlop rear rim is still on the bike, both wheels lined and painted to factory specification.

Mechanically the Vincent is spot on, upgraded with electronic ignition, it is an easy starter once you master the starting procedure of these mighty beasts.

This is a very correct Vincent Rapide that presents beautifully and is furthermore set apart by its Series B and C interim specification.

The Vincent Rapide comes with current UK V5 together with EU import duty paid for registration in any EU country.

Please get in touch for more photos, information and a video of the Vincent running.

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