1955 Vincent Black Knight

Lot details
Registration No: EEJ 501
Frame No: RD12910F
Engine No: F10AB2B11010
cc: 998
MOT Expiry Date: Exempt

1950 marked the high point in sales for the Vincent marque with 2800 examples leaving the factory, however, by 1953 sales had fallen to a little over 450 machines. This decline in sales was responsible for the development of the Black Knight and its sister machines the Black Prince and Victor single. The company recognised that the technological advantage that their products had previously enjoyed was being eroded. Rear suspension had become common place with all of the major manufacturers offering it in one form or another, electrical systems had improved greatly and the introduction of 650cc twins had blunted the Vincent's performance advantage. Phil Vincent understood the need to revise the range but sought to do so in such a way that would maintain the Vincent's position as an innovative machine, thus, the new machines would not simply be a refinement of the existing Series C range but would mark a radical change in direction for the Stevenage product. A number of mechanical refinements were introduced and the electrical system was uprated to include a 60 watt dynamo, the components now being sourced from Lucas. Amal Monobloc carburettors replaced the remote float chamber items previously employed aiding starting and fuel economy. However, it was the decision to employ full enclosure that would define the Series D machines. The machines featured a full front mudguard and rear enclosure that hinged upwards to facilitate rear wheel removal. The sidepanels incorporating the legshields were mounted to integrated crash bars and were carefully shaped to channel air to the cylinders. A half fairing and screen incorporating a dashboard mounting a three inch Smiths speedometer completed the enclosure. Contemporary road tests reported on the excellent weather protection provided and the consequent increase in rider comfort, however, the nature of the 'snarling beast' was fundamentally altered and the conservative nature of motorcyclists resulted in many expressing admiration but comparatively few purchasing them, a problem that was compounded due to the delay in availability of machines arising from quality issues encountered with the mouldings. Today Black Knights and Princes are highly sought after, with the Knight being the scarcer of the two.
This example of the Black Knight benefitted from a full restoration to original specification carried out by the current owner in 2011. Described as being in "perfect" condition throughout following the restoration this lovely machine is offered with a Swansea V5C, an original log book and a dating certificate.

PLEASE NOTE: We apologise but the final paragraph of text in the printed catalogue for this Motorcycle is not related to this machine. The correct description ends with the preceding paragraph, as per the details on our website.