1954 Vincent 998cc Rapide Series-C Project
Registration no. JRV 555 (see text)
Frame no. RC10831 Rear Frame no. RC10831
Engine no. F10AB/1/8931 Crankcase no. B93B
•Matching numbers project
•Entry-level access to Vincent twin ownership
•Two owners since 1968
•Present ownership since 1997
•Dismantled when acquired

The magnificent Vincent v-twin has been synonymous with design innovation, engineering excellence and superlative high performance ever since the Series-A Rapide's arrival in 1937. Philip Vincent's stress on appearance and performance is legendary, and his machines bristled with innovative features: adjustable brake pedal, footrests, seat height and gear-change lever. The finish was to a very high standard commensurate with the cost of the machine, which was virtually double that of any of its contemporaries. But above all else it was the v-twin's stupendous performance that captivated motorcyclists, whether they could afford one or not. With a top speed approaching 120mph, and bettering it in the Black Shadow's case, the Vincent v-twin was the fastest road vehicle of its day.

The Series-C Rapide we offer comes with a VE60 continuation logbook (issued 1968) and comes with the vendor's own personal logbook detailing works carried out since he acquired the machine in 1997, together with a few receipts/invoices. The first entry records the Rapide's purchase from one John Abbott (the only keeper listed in the aforementioned logbook); it was a 'basket case' when acquired, though including a number of new parts. The last entry is dated 2021 when the project stalled and refers to the flywheel assembly being rebuilt by Alpha Bearings at a cost of £1,250, although there is no related paperwork in the file. Nothing has been done since then. While the project cannot be guaranteed to be complete in every item, all the significant components are present, and the only parts known to be missing are the kickstart arm and a rear stand.

Although the aforementioned VE60 gives the date of first registration as 29th June 1954, it appears that the bike was despatched from the factory on 9th April 1952 according to the VOC. It should be noted that the registration 'JRV 555' is not recorded in the DVLA database. However, the RF60 may assist the new owner when applying to DVLA to register the machine under its original registration. No doubt the VOC may be able to assist with this.
Footnotes:
All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 21 April starting at 11am GMT.