1949 Vincent Rapide Series B

Lot details
Registration No: KNK 558
Frame No: R4009
Engine No: F10AB/1/1832
cc: 998
MOT Expiry Date: None

The pre-war Series A Rapide offered a level of performance unrivalled by the vast majority of its rivals, however the vee-twin engine configuration resulted in a long wheelbase endowing the machine with slow, albeit stable, handling.

The Stevenage based company promised a revised model in their wartime advertising that would address this issue together with the cluttered appearance of the engine due to the external oil lines that gave it the "plumber's nightmare" nickname. The result was promised to be fast, capable of cruising at 100mph, with exemplary handling and braking, a high degree of rider comfort and easy maintenance.

The solutions adopted in order to achieve their aims were radical. The full cradle frame was discarded, with the engine becoming an integral part of the machine. A fabricated oil tank incorporated the headstock mounting to the engine. At the rear of the engine brackets provided pick up points for the cantilever suspension system. Brampton girder forks were employed at the front, although their limitations were recognised and their subsequent replacement by Girdraulic units defined the Series C variants. A gearbox built in unit with the engine further aided the reduction in wheelbase in comparison to the Series A machines. The lubrication system for the engine was refined improving the appearance of the unit and aids to maintenance were incorporated into the design such as wheels that could be removed without the aid of tools. Twin drum brakes were employed on both wheels endowing it with exceptional braking distances.

That they largely achieved their aims is now a matter of historical record, although it was not until the Series C models arrived with the Girdraulic front forks that the two engineers were entirely satisfied.

This example has been in the same ownership since 1990 and is described as being "nice and complete". The vendor suggests that the carburettors may be replacement items and informs us that the motorcycle is currently on SORN until 2010. It is accompanied by a Swansea V5.

PLEASE NOTE: The frame number is R4009 and not as stated in the catalogue.