Vincent Series B Rapide makes $53K at Melbourne auction

The Vincent was an Australian-delivered 1948 Series B Rapide that had been rebuilt after 30 years in storage. Documentation on the bike can be traced back to its original owner in Adelaide. Sometime after that, it came to Melbourne, but remained in pieces for decades before being rebuilt in 2003.

As part of the restoration, new brakes were fitted, and both the engine and gearbox were overhauled by Phil Pilgram of Union Jack Motorcycles. The magneto was also rebuilt as part of the restoration, a 12 volt generator was fitted, and a new V3 clutch has also recently been fitted. The Vincent features an original 8 inch Miller headlight, Brampton forks and aluminium guards.

Upon completion of the restoration, this bike won the 'Best Series B' trophy at the Vincent International Rally in Ballarat in 2007. Today, it still presents in outstanding condition, and its status as one of the 'elite' marques of British motorcycling was reflected in its sale price of $53,000, which was at the high end of its pre-auction estimate.

The Norton International Model 40 was older - a 1935 model - but had also been restored to as-new condition. The lot on offer was a 350cc OHC version, one of three basic engine capacities available across the Norton range for that year. Finished in the signature Norton racing colours of silver with a black lined fuel and oil tank, the 1935 International also featured clip-on bars, high-mount tachometer, large front drum brake and 4-speed gearbox. The Norton sold for $16,100.

The Harley-Davidson on offer was a Model U, aka the "flathead", which was the stalwart of the Harley range through the 1930s until the arrival of the "knucklehead" in 1936. The lot on offer was from 1948, the last year that the Model U flatheads were built. The lot on offer featured a rebuilt engine and gearbox, and presented in very good condition. Despite this, it failed to meet its $28,000 - $34,000 guiding range.

The other motorcycle lot on offer was a 1960 Vespa 150cc scooter. Features on the striking blue & white scooter suggest it spent at least some time in Indonesia before coming here. Offered at No Reserve, the Vespa sold for $3,500.

For further details, go to www.shannons.com.au