Description

This beautiful 1951 Vincent Rapide has just one owner since 1962, a Vincent enthusiast with a 10-strong collection of Vincents. Need we say passionate?

The Vincent Rapide needs no introduction, it was the fastest standard motorcycle in production when it was launched in 1946 and has remained an icon of British Motorcycles ever since, not least helped by images of the record setting Bonneville Salt Flats run with rider Rollie Free wearing only his trunks and stretching out to minimize wind resistance.

This all matching numbers Series C Rapide was first registered on the 30th of March 1951 passing through three owners before ending up with its long term owner of almost 65 years(!). 

All numbers are confirmed by the Vincent Owners Club Registrar with a Certificate of Authenticity confirming matching frame (UFM+RFM) and engine number including matching crankcase halves.

The Rapide is a very good runner and starts first kick once you master the technique. The engine/gearbox has been rebuild with the speedo showing just 66Miles. The gears select and engage smoothly and the clutch is soft and easy to engage.

There are a few lovely upgrades fitted such as the iconic 5inch Smiths Black Shadow Speedo and ribbed Black Shadow brake drums front and back with Black Lightning alloy brake plates at the front. Futhermore, a discreet front brake strengthening plate has been crafted from alloy and lavishly lightened.

The original Miller headlight and amp meter is still fitted while a later Miller replica rear light is fitted. The exhaust pipe and silencer are stainless steel items.

Cosmetically the Rapide presents very lovely. The paint on top of the petrol tank has a few uneven spots on top and could benefit from a polish. All other hardware and paint in beautiful condition.

This is a lovely Series C Rapide with matching numbers that has been cherished by its long term owner. Clearly restored in the recent past, the engine runs smoothly and has a  superb exhaust note.

Comes with UK V5C, original Brown Log book and VOC certificate.

Please get in touch for more info, photos and a video of the motorcycle running.

We ship anywhere in the world at competitive rates and have great experience shipping all over Europe, US, Japan and Australia.

Condition & Registration

Registered
Ready to drive
Accident free

Self assessments

Engine (Seller assessment)
Paintwork (Seller assessment)
Technique (Seller assessment)

Inspection Report

Not available
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Technical Details

Vehicle data

Make
Vincent
Model name
Rapide C
Type
Sports Bike
First registration date
Not provided
Year of manufacture
1951
Mileage (read)
67 mi
Chassis number
Not provided
Engine number
Not provided
Gearbox number
Not provided
Matching numbers
Yes
Number of owners
Not provided
Café Racer
No

Technical details

Engine Type
4-Takt | OHV
Power (kW/hp)
33/45
Cubic capacity (cm³)
998
Cylinders
2
Starter
Kickstarter
Cooling
Air
Gearbox
Manual
Gearshift
Pedal Control Right
Gears
4
Transmission
Chain
Front brakes
Drum
Rear brakes
Drum
Fuel type
Petrol
Curb weight (kg)
Not provided

Individual Configuration

Exterior color
Black

Location

Loading map

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