Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at Race Retro 2026 - Motorcycles on Sunday the 22nd of February, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh Rd, Coventry, CV8 2LG.
Few motorcycles in history enjoy the near-mythical status of the Vincent Black Shadow Series C. In the early 1950s it stood unrivalled as the world’s fastest production motorcycle, a machine that effortlessly combined breath taking performance with advanced engineering and unmistakable presence. Today, it remains one of the most coveted and respected classics of all time.
Built by Vincent, the Black Shadow was the high-performance derivative of the Rapide, distinguished by its uprated internals, higher compression, and signature blacked-out finish. Its 998cc V-twin engine, used as a stressed member within Vincent’s innovative frame, delivered effortless high-speed cruising and extraordinary torque, setting standards few contemporaries could approach.
This particular Series C Black Shadow was sold by Pratts Vintage Motorcycle Co in London in July 1983 to John Cape of Ohio, USA, who retained the machine for over two decades before selling it in 2007 to Swiss collector Allan Boyle. During Boyle’s ownership, the Vincent underwent a complete restoration, with detailed receipts on file documenting the acquisition of parts from the Vincent Owners Club.
The motorcycle was acquired by Robin Haigh in November 2018 and was last MOT’d that same year. Since then, it has seen little use and has been unused for a couple of years, meaning some recommissioning will be required before it returns to active road use.
Accompanied by an excellent history file containing technical articles, restoration invoices, V5C, expired MOT certificates, and period tax discs, this is a well-documented and highly desirable example.
A truly exceptional opportunity to acquire a beautifully restored Vincent Black Shadow — a machine whose reputation, performance, and legacy continue to define the very pinnacle of classic motorcycling.
