The pre-war Vincent Rapide Series A offered a level of performance that few, if any, of its rivals could match. However, the longitudinal vee-twin engine configuration endowed the machine with an extended wheelbase and hence slow - albeit stable - handling. The Stevenage based company hinted at a revised model in their wartime advertising which 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.
When Vincent introduced the Series B Rapide in 1946 it dispensed with a conventional loop frame, utilising the engine as a stressed member to which the top frame 'tube', incorporating the oil tank and rear suspension and swinging arm pivot, was attached. The resultant design helped minimise the wheelbase.
A consequence of this method of construction is that complete rolling chassis are rarely offered with this particular example being a rare exception to the rule. A 'barn find' purchased by the vendor in about 1985, the lot is comprised of matching front and rear frame elements plus wheels and brakes, mudguards, saddle, petrol tank, chainguard, front forks and rear suspension units and rear number plate and light.
PLEASE NOTE: This motorcycle does not have an engine and therefore no engine number.
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