Post Listing Update: This Rapide did not meet reserve at $65,000. The seller then relisted the bike for $69,500, and it got no interest at that price.
The baby brother to the legendary Black Shadow, the Vincent Rapide was sold from 1936-55 in 3 distinct ‘Series’. The middle run was the Series B, which ended in 1948.
The Rapide’s 998cc V-twin was good for 45 horsepower. By the standards of the 50’s, this motorcycle was absolutely incredible. Top speed was about 120 miles per hour, and you got between 50-60 miles per gallon, to boot. For more information and a pleasant story about someone riding a Series B Rapide, check out this article from Motorcycle Classics.
This specific bike (VIN: F10AB/1/492) was the recipient of a top-notch rebuild by Ernesto Morales and has been with the seller since 2003. The year prior, it won Best of Show at the 2002 Vincent Owners Club International Rally in Kerrville, Texas. In 2004 the seller rode it 550 miles with his wife but it’s been ridden sparingly since. The bike now has 3,637 miles on it post-restoration. While the frame members have been stamped to match the engine, the seller notes that it’s not a true numbers-matching bike. The bike has been upgraded with custom SS intake manifolds, brand new Amal 930 Concentric carbs, step-on center stand, spiral wound silencer, large extended seat and SS crash bar.
Find this Series B Rapide for sale in Humble, Texas with bidding up to $65,000 and the reserve not yet met