Vincent 499cc Grey Flash Replica

Registration no. not registered Frame no. not stated Engine no. F10AB/2920/28

• Accurate Grey Flash replica
• Built seven years ago by engineer owner
• Fewer than 100 miles since completion

Development work by factory tester George Brown, himself an accomplished racer, resulted in the Vincent Grey Flash: a tuned version of the Series C Comet single with a power output of 35bhp and a top speed in racing trim of 115mph. The 'Flash retained the overall look of the Comet roadster, with Vincent's distinctive Girdraulic front fork and cantilever rear suspension, but featured an Amal TT carburettor, Elektron magnesium-alloy brake plates and an eye-catching pale grey colour scheme. Success eluded the works Grey Flashes in both the 1950 and '51 Isle of Man TT races but the model chalked up some notable victories on mainland short circuits in the hands of factory apprentice John Surtees. Catalogued only for the 1949 and 1950 seasons, during which time a mere 31 were completed, the Grey Flash is one of the rarest and most desirable of post-war Vincents.

Closely resembling a genuine Vincent Grey Flash, this replica was built some seven years ago by the owner - an engineer and avid Vincent collector - from parts collected over a 25-year period. The owner has a collection of other Vincent motorcycles, all of which he has restored, but now retirement, age and various motorcycling 'war wounds' have prompted him to reduce his collection. The engine has been completely rebuilt using early replica crankcases with all new parts fitted: big-end bearing, main bearings, etc and also incorporates a 9:1 piston and MkII camshaft. Unusually for a replica, the Amal 10TT9 Carburettor is correctly located below the genuine Grey Flash petrol tank, with three fuel taps fore and aft for constant feed on long bends when racing. The tank has been signed by John Surtees, who successfully raced a Grey Flash at the start of his illustrious career. Other noteworthy features include an Albion four-speed gearbox (rebuilt); reconditioned cycle parts; lightweight (milled out) bladed forks (as Grey Flash); twin racing brake-plates on both wheels (as Grey Flash); and alloy wheel rims; indeed, virtually everything on this machine has been rebuilt or remade/renewed. Described by the private vendor as powerful and running superbly, this well executed Grey Flash replica has covered fewer than 100 miles at parades and summertime events since completion and is presented in excellent condition.