This is one of only 177 Red 1951 Vincent Touring Rapide that were produced by the factory and is mated to a period Blacknell Bullet sidecar, only one of ten known in the USA. Blacknell was the sidecar manufacturer preferred and fitted by Vincent. A Touring Rapide is even rarer than the rare Red Rapide produced, the bike features valanced mudguards and taller, wider handlebars than “sports” models.
Vincent’s twins were the production road machines (2 or 4 wheel) during their day and for a decade after production ceased in 1955.
This bike was the winner of the Best in Class and show at the 2014 Vincent Hillbilly Owners B2B Rally.
The 1951 Vincent Touring Rapide is a classic example of British motorcycle engineering at its finest. Its powerful V-twin engine, innovative suspension, and elegant design make it an exceptional touring motorcycle. The Touring Rapide remains a cherished and celebrated bike among collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as one of the most iconic and revered motorcycles in history.
Overview
- Production Year: 1951
- Manufacturer: Vincent Motorcycles
- Model: Touring Rapide
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 1951 Vincent Touring Rapide is powered by a 998 cc V-twin engine.
- This engine produces approximately 45 horsepower at 5,750 rpm.
- The air-cooled, pushrod V-twin engine is renowned for its power and reliability.
- Transmission:
- The motorcycle features a 4-speed manual transmission.
- The gearbox is known for its robustness and smooth shifting, contributing to the bike's overall performance.
- Chassis:
- The Touring Rapide features a steel tube frame, which provides a strong and lightweight structure.
- The motorcycle's wheelbase measures 55 inches, offering stability and handling precision.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension utilizes a "Girdraulic" fork, an innovative design combining the girder and hydraulic fork systems.
- The rear suspension features twin shock absorbers mounted on the cantilever frame, providing excellent ride comfort and handling.
- Brakes:
- The Vincent Touring Rapide is equipped with drum brakes on both the front and rear wheels.
- These brakes offer reliable stopping power, suitable for the bike's performance capabilities.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Vincent Touring Rapide can achieve a top speed of approximately 110 mph (177 km/h).
- Acceleration: The bike's powerful V-twin engine provides strong acceleration, making it one of the fastest motorcycles of its era.
- Handling: The innovative suspension design and lightweight frame give the Touring Rapide excellent handling characteristics, making it a joy to ride on various road conditions.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Touring Rapide features a classic and elegant design with a teardrop-shaped fuel tank and minimalistic bodywork.
- The motorcycle has a black and polished metal finish, giving it a timeless and sophisticated appearance.
- The distinctive Vincent logo and "HRD" badge (Howard R. Davies) add to its iconic status.
- Comfort and Touring Features:
- The Touring Rapide is designed for long-distance riding, with a comfortable saddle and ergonomic handlebars.
- The motorcycle features a larger fuel tank compared to the sportier models, allowing for extended riding range.
- The rear luggage rack provides additional storage capacity, making it ideal for touring.
- Styling:
- The styling of the Touring Rapide is a blend of classic British motorcycle design and innovative engineering.
- The bike's clean lines, exposed mechanical components, and purposeful stance reflect its performance-oriented yet touring-friendly nature.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The 1951 Vincent Touring Rapide is an important model in the history of motorcycles, showcasing Vincent's engineering excellence and design innovation.
- It was part of the Series C lineup, which included the legendary Black Shadow and Black Lightning models, further cementing its place in motorcycle history.
- Cultural Impact:
- The Vincent Touring Rapide is a symbol of post-war British motorcycling, representing the pinnacle of performance and design during the 1950s.
- It was favored by enthusiasts and riders who appreciated its combination of speed, comfort, and reliability.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print of the 1951 Vincent Touring Rapide in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.
