Vincent Technical Sections: -Serial Numbers/Production- Photo Gallery of Models - Brakes - Engine Overhaul - Vincent Engines - Wheels/Fenders - Instruments - Transmission - Clutch - Magneto - Tank/Seat - Suspension - Tools - Norvin - Electrics- Carburetors - Misc - Links -Vincent Parts/Services Suppliers - Polishing/Cleaning - Shipping Vincents-Electric Starter - Paint/Transfers - Comet Pages -   Early B Rapide- the first 500 - Brampton Forks - C Rapide details - D series details - Vincent Sidecars

Vincent Motorcycle Free Classified Ads -Vincent Motorcycles/Parts/Literature/Services that are for sale.
Place your Vincent Motorcycle Ad here!!! FREE!  Just write down the ad copy and E-mail: 47 Rapide  .     Please include the words "classified ad" on the subject line of your e-mail.  Remember, not all people will have e-mail to contact you,  so a phone number is always to your advantage. We recommend only a phone number for the first 2 weeks and then adding an e-mail address if your item has not sold in that time. This strategy will reduce spam from Nigerians. Including a basic price avoids wasted effort on the part of the buyer and the seller. You have several ways of advertising your Vin or parts for sale.  1) Write up a Free ad listing your  phone number and e-mail , 2) Write up a Free Ad listing only your phone number which may limit overseas inquiries but will reduce spurious e-mails or  3) Hire me to develop a web page with photos and text and to Broker your Vincent.  I will screen all inquiries,  respond to questions, and provide guidance as to price/viewing/shipping/payment as required.  E-mail for details and fee for this option.  Please advise when your item is sold to enable ad removal, and refer to other sites if your item is not directly related to Vincent motorcycles. We average over 2800 visitors per day from a total of 52 countries !  We have a policy of Not posting any of Endless general "Trolling" ads we get flooded with. This is a site for enthusiasts... the little guys who love Vincents.  Good Luck, Craig and Jim.    Last edit July 2, 2019
If you wish to donate, we will accept Vin parts or money if you use the site and are successful in selling your parts or Vincent.  No obligation.  (please see Donated Commission Policy at end of this page.)

VINCENT Motorcycles, Parts and Literature For Sale:  HRD, METEOR, COMET,  RAPIDE,  BLACK SHADOW, VICTOR, BLACK KNIGHT, BLACK PRINCE,  NORVIN, EGLI, GREY FLASH, BLACK LIGHTNING






Miller Brake SwitchFor Sale:  Reproduction No. 42 round rear Miller brake light switches as used on the first 430 postwar 1946/7 Vincents. 
Cadmium plated to original specifications. 
Made in the USA. 
The price is $400 for each plus shipping.. 
When they are gone there will be no more, so do not dither around! 
Contact Mitch Talcove.  Phone: USA 760-801-7007; E-mail: mtalcove at gmail.com. 

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Vincent Parts: Haig Altounian has two Comet chainguards along with .005" and .010" oversize exhaust pipe nuts (ET84) from Maughan’s available, two of each.  He also has a tap and adjustable die so that custom fitting can be made.  He also has a good, used Vincent flywheel assembly (complete with rods since it is an assembly) for sale.  Inquire for details if you are interested.  Haig is still working on Vincents at the garage in Culver City, California.  He is available by appointment only at USA 310-477-8821 or cell phone 818-979-3106 for repair, restoration, and parts service.
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After twenty years, Steve Hall will be completing his final run of Vincent air cleaners.  There will be no more.  For those who don't know, these are an exact replica of the original Volks in grey hammertone with decal, stamped numbers and filter element.  They are now included as a judging requirement at Vincent meets.  Steve can be reached at :  hallsmetalworks@aol.com  ( Mike Fitzimons)

Wanted: Vincent Comet or Meteor in running condition or one that can be made to run with new parts and several weeks of work.  Twin  of course welcome but only have about 22k for budget right now.  Retired so can travel to pick up in USA or Canada.   VOC back to 1971 but currently without a bike.  E:mail: harvey

SOLD - Gene Schille Vincent Drag frame, wheels, forks, as you see as a rolling chassis.
Here are Gene's instructions - 
I since made a rolling chassis out of the drag race frame.
enclosed are some photos of my grandsons on the bike.



SOLD: - 1951 Vincent C Rapide, non-matching, running and licensed in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada.
Mikunis, K&Ns, 21" front, 19" rear Borranis,
bar ends, centre stand, Shadow speedo, parts records, decals, "manuals". 
Mine since 1988, prior provenance checked to '70s.
 
for more photos and greater detail.  Cheers, CarlMarch2015



SOLD:- 1949 Rapide in Canada. It has a bit of provenance, it runs fine and has all matching cases and frame,
and is registered with the VOC, who have sent me the paper on the original manufacture dates, specs, and tests. 
Originally built for Canadian Export, it was purchased by a collector and stored
with a large collection until his death. 
one picture shows it at an exhibition in England with a sign noting
an engine rebuild by a notable British Vincent expert. caMarch2015

SOLD: A Vincent Egli ,superb  everywhere , only ~~1000kms as tuning rides.
Engine all new parts  92 bore X 94 stroke = 1250cc , 5 speeds g-box, 
Francois Grosset electric starter and  electronic ignition, 36mm PHF Dellorto carbs.
Ceriani  35mm front forks, 230mm Fontana front brake.
Not an old period Fritz frame switz made. registred 1968.
July2014

SOLD -1949 Series C Black Shadow. Totally restored to original, less than 500 miles ago.
Runs superbly. Non matching  #s.
The bike is in Sweden, close to Gothenburg.
More pictures available.
June2014

SOLD - 1947 HRD Rapide Series B #335 - Restored in the UK approx. 5 years ago. Ridden 3000 miles or less since.
Very stunning performance with 1116 cc, 10-1 pistons, mark I Concentric carbs, KVF Magneto with manual advance.
Non matching #s.   
Located in Florida USA.
June/June2014

SOLD -  1952 Black Shadow touring. VIN#F10AB/1B/9643. The Frame# is RC11543B/B and the engine number is F10AB/1B/9643.   purchased in 1951 by a USAF pilot who took delivery at the factory and specified Touring fenders and British handle bars with a lockable throttle. He owned/rode it from 1951-2002 when he sold it to me (he was 82).  The engine was completely rebuilt in the late 80's and has been ridden 2,900 miles since. The speedometer and carbs were rebuilt with new slides by Lund. It has a new V-3 clutch, ESA and tensioner blade. The gas tank and fenders were stripped, repaired, enameled and striped.  "TreadDown" centrestand, KONI shocks front and rear. system was replaced with an Alton 160 watt alt, 12volt regulator/bulbs. horn was rebuilt "Taff the Horn" England. magneto replaced with a BTH magneto.  old Lucas magneto and 6 volt generator working when removed and go with bike.  Other than repainting the tank and fenders, the rest of paint is original including Girdraulic suspension and Vincent decal on steering head.  April/July2014

SOLD - 1950 Vincent Rapide Series C -  Nicely restored, numbers matching, cosmetics very good, top end rebuilt ( bottom end excellent) plus new primary drive gear and primary chain, magneto rebuilt, dynamo upgrade, starts hot or cold easily, very strong engine,
smooth clutch and transmission, this is an excellent show bike/rider.




SOLD: VINCENT HRD Series "C" year 1949 ,matching numbers ,
concours conditions ,
very low mileage, runs superbly.
Hills center stand fitted.





SOLD: Vincent Comet in excellent condition. Original registration number matching UFM.
1950 motorcycle with 1952 engine. Fully reconditioned throughout.
Cylinder head completely reconditioned by Clever Trevor on Hayling Island. New liner and rings by Simon Linford. Reconditioned ATD. Starts easily. Vincent Owners Club dating certificate and original doc copies from factory covering the frame and engine tests. Alloy peacatcher rims with stainless spokes.
Dave Hills tread-down centre stand. Extra long original seat. Extra long original footrest hangers - much more comfortable than standard. Dynamo charges and lights/horn work. Taxed (free) to 04/14. No MOT needed.




Vincent Video - 'Chasing Shadows'. The video is available in NTSC / VHS format and costs $35 including shipping to USA. At the moment we can only accept payment by personal checks ( in Dollars ). Mail checks to 'Grasshopper Films' at - 5B North Street, THAME, Oxfordshire, OX9 3BH, UK. Please check out video details at ( http://www.btinternet.com/~grasshopperfilms) other formats available , PAL.     E-Mail address for info:  grasshopperfilms@btinternet.com (Pip Whiteman)
* The Vincent motorcycling video "Chasing Shadows"   is a quiet, respectful documentary that has wonderful historic footage and informative commentary. The on-board camera successfully captures the sounds and exhiliration of motorcycle riding, especially when you are accompanied by another Vincent. The film will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Phil Vincent , Phil Irving , and Vincent factory employees who brought a dream to life.

Logo
New Vincent Parts:  Coventry Spares Ltd. 15 Abbey Lane, Middleboro, MA, 02346.   New Webpage:   http://www.thevincentparts.com/    Order line: 508-946-1144.  Out of state 1-800-451-5113.  Owner- John Healey.  Credit cards accepted.  Nice people ( John, Tom, Sue) with good advice and free chocolate included with your carefully packed order.  Every single part is labeled with your name, part number and date ...where other vendors send you a mixed up box of unknown nuts and bolts and washers that you have to try to identify.   Fast US Service with an excellent return policy. (updated address)     I've used these guys for over 40 years and still order from them First.  Extensive inventory of Vincent  parts with the refreshing attitude the customer is probably right.  Coventry gets orders from all over the world... there must be a very good reason.  They now also carry Recoil kits, BT-H mags and Alton alternators.


thevincent.com website special webpages:
Stevenage material Yahoo material
Norvin Engine 3270 and the Search for John Peart of Harrow

Russell Wright Reunion at Lake Arrowhead by Bill Hoddinott
Vincent Black Lightning #F10AB/1C/4439 and Black Lightning Data
Black Lightning Special Parts List   (items, part numbers, some photos)
Grey Flash Information
Grey Flash Ad 1949(  394kfile - very large for detail)
Vincent Rapide Drawing(143k file)
Drag Racing at Night - Auger  (129k)
Vincent Rapide Article with specs and photo (1951)
Letters From Home   (not motorcycle related...late night musings)

Phil Vincent: The years after 1959Historical note by Robin Vincent-Day.

KVFTT Special Webpage

Russell Wright Interview by Bill Hoddinott

 "McDouglator" generator for Vincent motorcyles

Nigerian Internet Scammers

Grey Flashes

Other recommended websites:
Good card to carry in your wallet:  http://www.medids.com/free-id.php

Interesting website about Coburn Benson, his shop and Grey Flash:      http://www.flickr.com/photos/dannysoar/3356953327/in/pool-vincentmotorcycle/ 

2 interesting videos about Sid Biberman and Bonneville....videos developed by the TV show Cafe Racer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvS2MYNEYfo&feature=plcp

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHZLsEhYux8&feature=plcp

Original movie footage by Vincent dating back to the factory entry in the 1936 IOM TT races.
https//speedisexpensive.com  
( Note from Carleton)


Riding a Series "C" Comet:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3jBGTc3Ycg&feature=related
Vincent Motorcycle Build/Date information (VOC)  (revised 3/25/07)   (This link is curretnly not operating - 4-16-07)
Vincent Owners Club Home Site
Vincent Motorcycle Links #1
Vincent Motorcycle Links #2
thevincent.co.uk   (Graham Carey)
Amandaa water scooter video ad:
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfTgYKoa-P4

Phil  Irving's excellent article "The Vincent Motorcycle" . Extensively covers the design considerations of the post-war Vincent.

General Motorcycle Links
Shaking Forces of Twin Engines
Walt Lund Carb Restoration
Bob Kizer's Magneto Information
http://www.mototuneusa.com/break_in_secrets.htm (Engine Break-in Secrets)
Hunter S. Thompson's Writings on Vincents
History of Cooper Cars
Working on Motorcycles - article by Paul Zell

Cooper car History:   http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/638/cooperstory4tn.jpg
Video/audio clip of Irving Vincent Racer being air-started:    http://www.irvingvincent.com/video/classic_racer.mpg

www.myvincent.co.uk/parts/parts.php (Vincent Spares List)

http://www.vincentstreamliner.com
(Various photos and videos of the Lambky Vincent Streamliner, Burns & Wright Lightning, Dave Matson, and other LSR Vincents)

How to read Spark Plugs by Gordon Jennings:     http://www.strappe.com/plugs.html

 NGK Sparkplug information:      http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/techinfo/spark_plugs/techtips.asp?nav=31000&country=US

The Story of the Black Shadow by Phil Irving : http://www.vincent-hrd.co.uk/story.html

Video of David Jefferies riding flat out at IOM with personal commentary. Great Fun. Be sure to go to Full Screen.  I can only watch it for a couple minutes before I have to stop to breathe....     http://kapitalmoto.co.uk/node/235

 Recommended Vincent road test video.    http://youtube.com/watch?v=mPZjk4AIBdU

 The story of Crazy George Disteel and his 19 Vincents as posted by Paul Zell.

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/6464/file00014k.jpg

http://web.archive.org/web/20071207224527/http://www.velocette.org/html/crazy+george+disteel.htm

http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/4672/73848583.jpg

There are a whole series of "On Any Sunday" video sections on Youtube.com.  Still magical  36 years later.  Start with Bart, Malcolm and Steve at :  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRJK02uV_oE&NR=1

Vincent motorcycles in the Movies:
http://www.imcdb.org/vehicles_make-Vincent.html

Story of the Vincent "Black Widow" .... bogus but fun:    http://www.angelfire.com/wi/VinWidow/index.html

Richard Thompson's version of Vincent Black Lightning:  http://youtube.com/watch?v=AxKTzwaEa2o

 Phil Davies sent in instructions for using  thevincent.com as your Home Page or as your desktop Background !!

Scandinavian Vincent Club:      http://vincenthrd.se

Steve Hamel's 153mph/100hp Bonneville Vincent on the Dyno:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6SpCobouDc&feature=related

Interesting video of Jay Leno testing out his Vincent Black Shadow:
http://www.nbc.com/The_Tonight_Show_with_Jay_Leno/video/#mea=167040

Great solution to Speeding:  www.speedbandits.dk/  or     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UdLaf276-I   

Interesting website for renting videos if you really want to Learn a Skill.... welding, lathe operation..etc..:   http://smartflix.com

Burman BAP drawngs:   http://vincenthrd.se/skisser.php

http://www.landracing.com/forum/index.php/topic,3908.0.html  ( Link to Max's Vincent Streamliner website )

Interesting photos and stories about olde motorcycles.    http://thevintagent.com     

Top Gear video:  Race between a Steam Train, an XK 120 and a Vincent Black Shadow.    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBZVPsfCxjI

Irving-Vincent Engine:Photos, history, and infomation in SpecialReport. Australia

http://www.vincentstreamliner.com/     Max Lambky's world speed record website.

Information on USA Titles and Registration of antique/classic vehicles - from Bruce Metcalf:

Vincent Poster:  New poster has text, over 30 photos of Vincents and engines from 1928 to 1955, a blow-up of a late Twin engine and many other illustrations and goodies packed into a large 27" x 39" inch artful poster available in heavy paper for $10 or laminated for $20.  (Really nice work... Recommended.)  Please mention if you are a member of the Jtan internet Vincent discussion group. E-mail:  carlhungness@verizon.net. or  website: carlhungness.com  or Phone: 812-273-2472.     USA


Book Review:  "Flat Out ! The Rollie Free Story" by Jerry Hatfield.  I've talked with a number of people about this 179 page 9" x 12" book and accompanying oral history CD ...and everyone likes it, but no one has finished it.  I too plan to keep it next to my easy chair this winter, close by the crackling fire, sampling various stories and studying the excellent photos.  It is not a glance and toss fluff rehash of  previously published data.  Hatfield has certainly reached deep  into archives and personal recollections revealing interesting new insights into the man and the era.  Work on the book spanned over 27 years with the last five years dedicated to intensive research and writing/compilation.  The book provides you with Rollie's background and the heroic efforts leading up to the Great Event....at 7:53am on that fateful day September 13, 1948.

The story telling is not limited to Vincent motorcycles... indeed, there is extensive coverage of Rollie making his early mark racing Indian motorcycles.   46 years and 80 pages go by before the first mention of a Vincent motorcycle.  However, to truly understand the role of the Spitfire airplane in the Battle of Britain, you have to go back at least to the Schneider Air Races of the 1930's.  So it is with a man in his bathing shorts and bath slippers balanced precariously on the rear fender of a Vincent setting the American Motorcycle Speed Record at Bonneville....you need to go back to the beginnings.  Phil Irving's autobiography gives you historical perspective on the design, production and special magic of the Vincent motorcycle. "Flat Out" gives you the essence of the man/tuner/rider and further details of that eventful day and the special machine.  A serious book for a serious reader...and Christmas and long winter nights are fast approaching,  just like that Vincent.

 Sources for "Flat Out"



Sounds of Vincent Twin Engine Running   This is really cool.   Many thanks to Anders Forsberg ! (It's a WAV file...  be sure to throttle up the volume.)

Answer to e-mail questions about the Black Lightning song:

The Richard Thompson Song about a '52 Vincent Black Lightning clearly conveys the passionate feelings that are generated by beautiful women and powerful motorcycles. Those of us who have experienced both admire Richard's ability of communicating to others the stories of our wildest and deepest loves. Richard carries us away on a vivid adventure in song where others have been left standing at the curb.  By the end of his story we feel our tourguide on this enjoyable journey has shown us that Red-haired women and Vincent Black Lightnings can be both our salvation and our ruin.  What is powerful enough to carry us to the heavens can also crash us to earth.  His gift of the Black Lightning may not be a reward for what she gave him, but rather a realization that he must free himself from the steel bonds of both of his deepest loves.  Only then can he escape the forces that gave him life and controlled his destiny.

For those of us who own a Vincent motorcycle, nothing else comes remotely close to the feelings of riding a quiet Dinosaur that suddenly transforms into a Fierce Dragon that bellows fire and takes flight..except a loving beautiful woman.

Richard understands.

To listen to the song....paste and scroll down and play.  Compliments of Red Molly.  (  http://www.rtlist.net/listen.htm )


Thoughts about Ebay:

Xxxxxxxxx,

Thanks for your note.. Yes, ads are thin right now with people putting their spares on Evil Bay clawing for absolutely the top dollar...although they may appropriately end up with the parts gone and a bogus cashiers check or claims of non-receipt of goods..   I don't link to or generally even mention Evil Bay. When asked about Evil Bay, I tell Vin owners to try to borrow some Vin parts from Ebay, ask about their next Vincent social event, try to get help setting up your timing chest, ask them a tech question about carbs, stop over for a free beer and chat...ask to see their Vincent model photo galleries and engine diagrams, let them help you with identifying models, serial numbers and sources of  parts, call them up to share the excitement and joy of your first Spring ride, ask them to drive out with a van to pick you and your Vincent up when your magneto quits.....There is NOTHING at Ebay but a @^%$&#*  computer...

Well... you get the point... people may get a fistful of dollars and certainly will get precious little else.  Then... and this is Classic... in a later conversation they complain about the high price of some Vin parts they really need.  Bitten by their own snake.   I guess that's what they deserve.  The rest of us will post our Vincents and parts on  thevincent.com. and receive the reward of  lasting friendship and an honest amount of money.

Jim
thevincent.com


From my Oregon Vintage Motorcycle Club Member Profile-

Favorite episode involving a motorcycle:  In 1972 an old Chinese man in Takoma Park, MD asked me to look at this strange motorcycle in the cellar of the house he inherited from his brother. It was a rough Velocette Venom that had been sitting for years and was missing the muffler.  We worked for over an hour in the dim light before I could finally kick the reluctant dragon to life.  It responded by filling the cellar with thick blue smoke, flashes of light from the backfires, and roars from the open exhaust.  I’ll never forget his wide open eyes and the dancing smile on his face.  He was 9 again and it was the Fourth of July.  Also noted was the torrent of Chinese shouts from his wife at the top of the stairs which were totally ineffective at quenching our Celebration.  To this day, the key ingredients of vintage motorcycling still are - mystery, frustration, sweat, loud noises, smoke, camaraderie, celebration, and contentment.


"When conditions change and market pressures ease, then considerations such as originality and history must count. Condition can be bought by anybody who can afford the best restoration.  But nobody can recreate originality. Once lost, its gone forever.”  Great quote from biker Roland Johansson.

A man can ride his Vincent Motorcycle in the daytime and sleep under a city bridge at night covered only by cardboard and his life will be rich and complete.

The sensation of being on a motorcycle embodies what we’re all seeking in life.    Freedom.    Steven Alford

At least we have Vincent motorcycles to spirit us away from all that is worrisome in this troubled and divisive world.  Whether riding or taking apart or admiring in your garage or just talking about with kindred friends... Phil Irving left us a precious gift and that realization of his dream can lift us to new heights....if we are willing.  Without Irving, we are left with smoking popcorn can 2 strokes and arrogant unresponsive slugs of American iron.... or my son's death defying nervous dragon from Japan.  Sleep well knowing you ride a durable rewarding steed that can be a comforting companion....yet when called upon.. like a gallant charger... will win the day.

Vincent powered Cooper (please send in performance info and any photos of Coopers..especially showing Vincent engine.) History of Cooper Cars


Anyone owning a Vincent should by law: 1) own a Bridgeport milling machine or know a skilled mate with same; 2) have a basket case in progress so friends can borrow emergency parts; 3) keep a well-stocked refrig in the shop for drop-in visitors; 4) when asked to compare Vincents to other motorcycles discusses pilot input and the rewards of a WWII Spitfire and the dullness of  throwaway Chinese toaster ovens; and 5) live in  a major city with an active VOC section.

Disclaimer:  thevincent.com does not warranty or recommend in any way the vendors or parts advertised on this website.  It is up to you to discern the accuracy of the ads and to assume full responsibility for the terms, exchange of consideration, and shipping arrangements between all parties involved.  I just post the ads I'm sent directly by the owner or his representative or forwarded by a Vincent enthusiast.

thevincent.com
Please contact husky@huskyclub.com if you require information on placing a FREE classified ad.  Your classified ad for bikes/parts/literature will be immediately posted to rabid Vincent enthusiasts all over the World. We are always looking for good quality photos of past and present Vincents to post. Please send only .jpg photo files or originals.


Website Design and Operations:
for classifieds and photos Craig Comontofski - please e-mail:  husky@huskyclub.com
Craig collects Vincents and 4 speed Husqvarna and is always looking for bikes/parts/literature.  He runs the Lamboghini Miura Technical Website (  http://www.miuraworkshop.com ).  He designed and operates the huskyclub.com website aided by the patience and loving support of his wonderful wife, Linda.
Craig leads the pack..
thevincent.com is rated the Number One website for Vincent Motorcycles by "Classic Bike" magazine.(Our Office Staff)
 

                                 (The Office Cat .."Lucky")


Donated Commission Policy:
We do accept donations of Vincent parts or money if you use the site and are successful in selling your Vincent parts or motorcycle.  The reason is that over the years several successful sellers and buyers have sent me free Vincent parts (our basket case is getting more complete !), one person sent several nice pieces of original Vin literature which they held onto when they sold their Vin through the website, and one East Coast Vincent owner routinely sends me 5% on every item he sells through the site !  Several of the above have asked me to post this policy of "unsolicited commisions" as they believe it to be fair to all concerned... and we certainly can use the support.  In return you receive No Special Favors but probably sleep a little better and will certainly help to return another Vin to the road.


Suggestions to improve this website are welcome. These website pages, their design, graphics and contents, unless otherwise noted, are Copyright © 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 by James Baltusnik and Craig Comontofski.  All rights reserved.