1955 Vincent 998cc Black Prince

Registration no. RYM 280 Frame no. RD12848BF Engine no. F10/AB/2B/10948

• The ultimate Vincent v-twin
• Recently re-commissioned (2020)
• Last run earlier this year

Ever since the Series-A's arrival in 1937, the Vincent v-twin had been synonymous with design innovation, engineering excellence and superlative high performance. So, in September 1955 when it was revealed that production of the Stevenage-built machines would cease, the news stunned the motorcycling world. It had been decided that the firm's future lay in more profitable lines of manufacture, and just 100 more of the fabulous v-twins would be completed. By the time its demise was announced, Vincent's final twin - the Series-D - had been in production for just six months.

It had been Philip Vincent's belief that provision of ample weather protection combined with enclosure of engine and gearbox, would make the Vincent Series-D the ultimate 'gentleman's motorcycle', though delayed delivery of the glassfibre panels - plus continuing demand for traditionally styled models - resulted in over half the production leaving the Stevenage factory in un-enclosed form. The enclosed Rapide and Black Shadow were known as Black Knight and Black Prince respectively. Other Series-D innovations included a new frame and rear suspension, a user-friendly centre stand, plus many improvements to the peerless v-twin engine. When production ceased in December 1955, around 460 Series-D v-twins had been built, some 200 of which were enclosed models.

The vendor purchased this Black Prince last year and discovered that it required a major overhaul as it had not run for over ten years. We are advised that the machine has now been completely checked over and re-commissioned using many new or reconditioned parts, with all the original chrome being renewed and a new sealed battery fitted. Not immaculate, though still presentable, the machine is now considered by its owner to be ready to use. Last run earlier this year, this ultimate Vincent is offered with a rider's handbook, original parts books, and old/current V5/V5C Registration Certificates.