Introduced in 1949 and only available in Series C form, the Vincent Comet was to the single-cylinder motorcycle world, what the Black Shadow and Rapide were to the twins. Conceived as a high speed sporting single, it was built to represent the ultimate stage in the development of a production 500cc motorcycle. Vincent was renowned for their exacting standards and offered many of the same features and refinements from their twin-cylinder models on their more affordable single-cylinder range.
The newcomer's power unit was clearly derived from the twin-cylinder heavyweights with the rear cylinder being replaced by a frame tie that also supported the four-speed Burman gearbox. In most other respects the Comet followed the twin-cylinder variants, although the brake drums were plain and the Girdraulic spring boxes had only the outer springs. When tested in 1949, the Series C Comet was praised for its excellent handling, braking and performance that resulted in it stopping in 21 feet from 30mph (a record at the time) and recording a highly reputable top speed of 88mph. This combination of talents proved successful and the Comet was seen as a more refined machine than its rivals from manufacturers such as BSA and Velocette, placing it at the forefront of its class. The example offered is described by the vendor as being a 'matching numbers' bike in original condition. The engine was running prior to the machine being placed on display in a dry office during 1984 and will therefore require recommissioning prior to use.
PLEASE NOTE: The frame number for this motorcycle is RC/1/9018/D and not as stated in the catalogue.
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