Lightning Motor – 1949 Vincent Rapide

In England, Sport by AbhiLeave a Comment

Here’s a lovely pairing of a Rapide frame with a Black Shadow motor that’s been, as the seller puts it, “lightningized”. THe current owner acquired the bike in 1998 (from an owner that had it for 3 decades). After a bit of restoration and maintenance, it’s now ready for someone who wants to experience the joy of Vincent ownership at a discount and doesn’t mind a bit of non-originality. Purists, look elsewhere.

The Rapide frame is from 1949, while the Shadow motor is from 1953. It got a Lightning-spec tachometer and Dunlop alloy rims, plus Amal levers and dual throttles. The odometer shows 6,221 miles and the seller says it’s “ready to ride and has [been] serviced regularly.” The tank and seat have been refurbished as they were in poor cosmetic condition. The rest of the paintwork is said to be original. I like the concept of this bike, even if I can’t afford it.

If you don’t have my budgetary constraints, find this Rapide with a Lightning motor for sale in Costa Mesa, California with bidding up to $56,100