Charterhouse Auctioneers & Valuers
Lot 93
A 1950 Vincent Touring Series CR Rapide export model, registration number 762 XUN, frame number RC 6294, engine number F10AB/1/4394, Chinese red. One of only 107 Vincent Rapide Tourers exported to America, finished in the distinctive Chinese red. The export of these large V-twin Vincents came to fruition with a collaboration between Vincent and Indian. Post WWII Indian needed a machine to compete with the Harley-Davidson OHV bikes. The partnership with Vincent worked well, and enabled Indian to maintain a position in the market place through its 2000 dealerships. The export model Rapide differs in detail from its European sibling, with high handle bars, a 19 inch front and an 18 inch rear wheel with wider section tyres, and the eye catching Chinese red livery. RC 6294 was purchased by the vendor in 2005 as a restoration project. It had been with the previous owner for approximately 20 years. Over the next four years the Vincent was rebuilt to a concours standard and has only covered 144 miles since. Testament to the high standard of presentation, RC 6294 has graced the front cover of The Classic Motorcycle magazine (November 2012), which features a four page article on the bike. Accompanying the Vincent are copies of the works order form, number 23293, despatched check sheet, completion note, American affidavit of sale and two purchase receipts, a copy of The Classic Motorcycle featuring the Vincent, the first MOT after the restoration in 2009 and general information. This beautifully restored Vincent is only for sale, so the vendor can concentrate on other machines in his collection. Surely now this rare motorcycle would be worthy of inclusion in any important collection. V5C, MOT and tax exempt See front cover and other illustrations
