1950 Vincent 499cc Comet

Registration no. LKH 109 Frame no. Upper Frame no. RC/1/5966 Rear Frame no. RC/1/5966 Engine no. Engine no. F5AB/2A/4066 Crankcase nos. 93H/93H

• Matching numbers example
• Well maintained, with some modern updates

With the apocryphal tale of Vincent-HRD Series A twins being conceived as a result of two single-cylinder drawings being overlapped, it could be said that the post-war single cylinder engine was brought about by the use of a rubber – removing the rear cylinder of the existing twin-pot design. In other respects, the layout was almost identical, with the same 'frameless' cycle parts being employed for both types. On the singles, the rear cylinder was replaced with a cast alloy beam, and the gearbox employed was the familiar Burman item, an older versions of which had been popular before the war. Announced in late 1948, a few Series B Meteors were produced before being joined by the Comet in Series C form with Girdraulic forks, as opposed to the Brampton girders on the Meteor. The Comet was a little more expensive, being equipped with the new forks, a higher compression ratio, front propstands, and a modified, slightly longer, rear frame section. In most other respects the bikes were very similar. It remained in the model range from its inception in 1948 until 1954.

This matching numbers Comet was purchased by the vendor in 2004. The previous owner, Neil Cowan, had acquired the machine in 1994 from a garage in Dundee, and used the machine for a few rallies and shows before realising that it required some work. He gave the machine to Simon Linford who carried out work mainly to refurbish the front forks, dampers and electrics, whilst the engine was sent to Bob Dunn for a complete rebuild (invoice on file). Later work included fitting an Alton generator and regulator. Registered in Hull, the factory records do not relate to whom LKH 109 was first consigned (possibly Jordans of Hull), but there is a copy of the Works Order form and a VOC certificate of Authenticity in the documents. It retains its original upper frame, rear frame and engine.

The present owner has used the Comet every year during his ownership, for club runs and local rallies, and continued to improve the machine, adding stainless steel wheel rims and spokes, a centre stand, folding rider's footrests, barrel relined with standard piston, new valves and guides, new multiplate clutch, new carburettor, anti-sumping valve, and a 105 camshaft (original cam included). Unfortunately, the vendor has reached an age at which he feels he may be unable to use the bike as much as he would like, and wishes to pass it on to another custodian to enjoy. With the battery reconnected, it will be ready for a new owner to use. Documentation comprises a current V5C, copy old V5s, a quantity of old tax discs, the aforementioned copy Works Order Form, invoices / receipts, and sundry papers.
Offered without key