Vincent Rapide
The pre-war Series A Vincent Rapide offered a level of performance unrivalled by the vast majority of its rivals, however the vee-twin engine configuration resulted in a long wheelbase endowing the machine with slow, albeit stable, handling. The Stevenage based company promised a revised model in their wartime advertising that would address this issue together with the cluttered appearance of the engine due to the external oil lines that gave it the "plumber's nightmare" nickname. The result was promised to be fast, capable of cruising at 100mph, with exemplary handling and braking, a high degree of rider comfort and easy maintenance.
The solutions adopted in order to achieve their aims were radical. The full cradle frame was discarded, with the engine becoming an integral part of the machine. A fabricated oil tank incorporated the headstock mounting to the engine. At the rear of the engine brackets provided pick up points for the cantilever suspension system. Brampton girder forks were employed at the front, although their limitations were recognised and their subsequent replacement by Girdraulic units defined the Series C variants. A gearbox built in unit with the engine further aided the reduction in wheelbase in comparison to the Series A machines. The lubrication system for the engine was refined improving the appearance of the unit and aids to maintenance were incorporated into the design such as wheels that could be removed without the aid of tools. Twin drum brakes were employed on both wheels endowing it with exceptional braking distances. That they largely achieved their aims is now a matter of historical record, although it was not until the Series C models arrived with the Girdraulic front forks that the two engineers were entirely satisfied.
For those seeking more performance the option existed to purchase a Black Shadow from early in 1948. The Shadow featured a mildly "breathed on engine" with larger carburettors and a higher compression ratio which resulted in a top speed in excess of 120mph. The brake drums were ribbed and the engine and gearbox were finished in black enamel whilst a 5 inch 150mph speedometer dominated the riders view. As with the Rapide the Series C Black Shadow benefited from the adoption of Girdraulic forks. Shadowised Rapides, whilst not common, are a relatively familiar sight, offering the performance and appearance of a Shadow for a little more than a Rapide.