1948 Vincent Series B Rapide

Our 1948 Series B Rapide was delivered to Elder Smith the Australian importer of the time, on 27 July 1948. Adelaide dealer Sven Kallin was the next recipient. Along its journey the original engine parted ways with the chassis probably to be used for a racing sidecar for which they were so popular. A suitable replacement was obviously found. Pro Hart the well-known artist purchased it probably in the 1980’s.

The bike has its South Australian Registration tag dated 01/10/1984. Then on 1st July 2007 Bonham’s offered it at one of their collector vehicle auctions. Collector of British motorcycles extraordinaire the late Russell Jansen purchased it at this auction. Russell was a great friend and customer of Harley City. We purchased the Rapide from Russell’s wife Anne 7th August 2014. Russell had thoroughly reconditioned all the bikes mechanical components leaving us with a well sorted machine.

Enjoy the ride…