1956 Vincent Rapide Series D
Matching numbers example

Registration No: TFD 228
Frame No: RD12642
MOT: Exempt

• One of only around 150 Series D Rapides manufactured
• Stood for a while, but the engine turns over on the kickstart
• Thought to be 1 owner from 1956 to 2023, supplied with a V5
• Matching numbers example

Vincent’s origins date back to 1924 when TT winner Howard R. Davies started producing motorcycles under his own name. In 1928 HRD was acquired by Phil Vincent who initially built bikes as Vincent HRD until 1949 and then Vincent thereafter. Initially producing bikes using proprietary engines in his own chassis, Vincent was always the innovator by the mid-'30s having developed his own 500cc single and 1000cc twin-cylinder designs that survived until the company's closure in 1955. Already advertising their existing 110mph Rapide machine as "the world's fastest production motorcycle", in February 1948, the legendary Black Shadow was announced with a top speed of 125mph. The big V-twin was the one of the most desirable motorcycles in the world at the time and with some astute marketing became the bike everyone aspired to own. The Rapide and Black Shadow range have become some of the most desirable and iconic bikes of the era.

This 1956 Rapide appears to have survived in essentially original condition and is thought to have had only one owner from new until a friend bought it from him a couple of years ago. Approximately only 150 Series 'D' Rapides were produced, being the last bikes to leave the Stevenage factory before motorcycle production ceased in December 1955. The bike has been stood for at least 8 years so will require a good recommissioning or restoration before use, however, the engine turns over on the kickstarter with compression. Fitted with a Craven rear carrier, the wheels look to have been rebuilt but is offered in otherwise very original condition. The engine number of F10AB/2/10742 is the correct 1900 below the frame number, and being first registered in March 1956 must be one of the last Vincents sold new.

For more information, please contact:
Ian Cunningham
ian.cunningham@handh.co.uk
07415 871189