Lot details Registration No: TSJ 362 Frame No: R3486 Engine No: F10AB/1/1586 cc: 998 MOT Expiry Date: Sept 2011
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 use of tools. Twin drum brakes were employed on both wheels endowing it with exceptional braking capabilities. That Vincent largely achieved its aims is now a matter of historical record, although it was not until the Series C models arrived with the Girdraulic front forks during 1949, a year of transition for the company, that the two engineers responsible were entirely satisfied.
The example offered is a 1949 Series B engine number F10AB/1/1586, and was originally road registered as 'AJE 995' (prior to that number's removal by a number plate dealer sometime in the 80's/90's). A thorough restoration was undertaken by the enthusiastic owner between 2003 and 2008 and included: refurbished girdraulic forks and series C RFM plus new stainless wheels and tyres. Attention was paid to the BT-H Magneto, Alton Generator, 5inch speedo and 5inch rev counter and Crash bars and brightwork fittings were either re-chromed or replaced with stainless steel. New chains and sprockets and a new stainless exhaust system were also sourced and fitted. Engine overhauling comprised: new muffs and liners, pistons, unleaded valve seats, valves, springs and exhaust port inserts, the work being carried out by one of the UK's leading Vincent engineers, Bob Dunn. Finally electric start and Mikuni carbs make this motorcycle ready to undertake its next 60 years with confidence. It is described as being in "excellent" condition in all respects and is offered with a Swansea V5C and an MOT certificate valid until 15th September 2011.
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