1949 Vincent HRD Rapide Series B
Fully restored in c.2010

Registration No: 881 UYE
Frame No: R4136
MOT: Exempt

• Restored to an extremely high standard
• Little subsequent use but said to run well
• Includes a Vincent Dating Certificate

Vincent Motorcycles was established in 1928 when Phil Vincent bought the rights to HRD Motors Ltd. after the company went into voluntary liquidation. Initially, his motorcycles used proprietary engines, but in 1934 two original engines were developed, a 500cc single and a 1,000cc V-twin. Developed from the pre-war Series A, the Rapide Series B went into production in 1946 and was famously the fastest motorcycle on sale at the time. Unit construction allowed Vincent to combine the engine and gearbox into a single casing, which was used as a stressed member in lieu of a conventional frame. Philip Vincent summarised his design philosophy in his memoirs, writing "What isn't present takes up no space, cannot bend, and weighs nothing — so eliminate the frame tubes!"

'881 UYE' was comprehensively restored by a skilled engineer approximately 15 years ago. Everything was stripped, inspected, cleaned, replaced, or repaired where necessary, before the paintwork was applied by a professional. The upper and lower frame numbers match, but the rear frame number may or may not be factory stampings it may be that the engine cases have been replaced at some point in its life. '881 UYE' is offered with a Vincent Dating Certificate from the Vincent works and a current V5C. We have been advised that the Rapide is 'running well' and to own this would surely be a dream come true for many enthusiasts of British motorcycles.

For more information, please contact:
Mike Davis
mike.davis@handh.co.uk
07718 584217