The Vincent V-Twin: Born 1934-Died 1955
THE VINCENT
SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT: THE VINCENT
THE VINCENT V-TWIN: BORN 1934-DIED 1955
The elements of a legend:
THE ENGINE: A 998-cc pushrod V-Twin that developed 45 bhp in its early days. Later refinements pushed output to 70 bhp. Weighing less than some of today's Superbikes, the hotter versions could churn out 100-mph-plus standing start quarter-miles and top out at 125 mph. Beginning with the post-war B series Rapides, the engine was of all-alloy construction, with 50-degree cylinder angle. Following the Rapides came the faster Black Shadow and finally the ultra-fast 150-mph Lightning.
AFAR-OUT CHASSIS: It utilized the engine itself as the primary structural member I to save weight. Unusual was the rear frame section, actually a triangulated swinging arm pivotea off the engine plates and sprung from a short top tube. The front forks were of the girder variety, accommodating up-and-down movement through horizontal links near the steering head. Wheelbase was thus kept nearly constant through the entire range of fork movement.
THE CONTROVERSY: It was the fastest bike of its time, giving forth to the mistaken impression that it should be a road-racer, not merely a good roadster. So it was praised for its speed and smoothness. And damned for its handling, which wasn't bad-for its intended use. Its brakes were only passable, if you're of the mind that a manufacturer should stop you as fast as he accelerates you. What finally killed it? A trend towards smaller machines, and the high cost of unautomated production.
