Vincent motorcycle books - history, types and construction

Vincent - The Complete Story

From its founding in 1928 until its closure 30 years later, Vincent produced some of the finest motorcycles of its time. Models like the Black Shadow, Rapide, and Black Lightning became synonymous with great design, engineering, and exceptional performance.

This book offers a detailed history of the company, tracing its origins in the early 20th century. It covers the design and production of each model made by the Stevenage-based firm. The book includes comprehensive specifications, archival illustrations, and specially commissioned colour photographs, providing a thorough and fitting tribute to one of the jewels of the British motorcycle industry.

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Original Vincent Motorcycle - The Restorer's Guide to Postwar Singles and Twins

This book focuses on all post-1945 Vincent motorcycles, including the 1000 cc Series B, C, and D Rapides, the famous Black Shadow, Black Knight, Black Prince, and the 500 cc Meteor and Comet singles.
It primarily covers the postwar models but also provides important background on the early history of the Vincent-HRD company, founded in Stevenage with a focus on exclusive motorcycles for discerning riders.

Introduced in 1946, the postwar Vincent motorcycles were known for their innovative design, including the groundbreaking engine, frame, and brakes. The 1946 Rapide, for instance, was a fast 110mph touring bike, made light thanks to its use of alloy materials.

This book offers a detailed analysis of the postwar Vincents, covering the many changes made during production. It is an essential resource for Vincent owners, prospective buyers, and enthusiasts, offering clear guidance on originality and specifications.
With over 200 specially commissioned color photographs and illustrations, the book provides an in-depth look at these iconic motorcycles. It is indispensable for anyone involved in owning, restoring, or purchasing Vincents.

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Vincent (1945-1980) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book about the Vincent motorcycles from the years 1945-1980. Describes the Vincent Firefly, Egli-Vincent, NorVin, Comet, Meteor, Rapide, Grey Flash, Black Shadow, Black Prince and Black Lightning.

• The 60 articles, taken from contemporary British and American motorcycle magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and technology.
• Also driving impressions, tests, comparison tests, technical specifications, etc.

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More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books

The Vincent Black Shadow

The Vincent Black Shadow is a name that resounds whenever classic bikes are discussed. The Vincent company were already advertising their existing Rapide machine as `The world's fastest production motorcycle' when, in February 1948, the Black Shadow was announced with a then unbelievable top speed of 125 mph on pool petrol. It's no wonder that the bike has been a constant source of fascination since that announcement.

Few, however, have defined exactly what comprised a Black Shadow and how today you can spot a genuine one. "The Vincent Black Shadow" explains how the model was originally conceived in secrecy, its development and subsequent production, discussing in depth those features it shares in common with the other Vincent models and those that differentiate it.

Charting the details of the changes introduced in its production life and the modifications in the interests of speed or improved road performance that may have been done to it by generations of owners over the sixty-odd years since production ceased, Tim Kingham offers a lavishly illustrated and essential read for any fan of this iconic bike.

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