Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 27th October from 1pm
Auction: Wed 28th October from 10am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
Registration No: IG 5365
Frame No: 38117
MOT: Exempt
Presented in original unrestored condition
A rare model from a famous manufacturer
Includes an owner’s manual and a V5C
The Vincent story began with Phil Vincents purchase of the HRD name in 1928, initially producing bikes using proprietary engines in his own chassis. Always the innovator by the mid-30s he had developed his own 500cc single and 1000cc twin-cylinder designs that survived until the company’s closure in 1955. The big vee twin was the fastest motorcycle in the world at the time and with some astute marketing become the bike everyone aspired to own. The range of Comets, Rapides and Black Shadows have become some of the most desirable and iconic bikes of the era. The bikes were expensive to produce, and as they struggled to survive in a competitive marketplace, Vincent tried to diversify into other products. After proudly offering the fastest bike available, they went to the other extreme and launched the Firefly clip-on engine in 1953. The Firefly was a 45cc two-stroke engine mounted beneath a bicycle’s bottom bracket, driving the rear wheel using a friction roller. It was built from 1953 to 1955 under licence from Miller, long time suppliers of electrical components to Vincent. It was not enough to save the firm, and production ceased in 1955.
This original and unrestored Firefly, being offered at no reserve, is mounted in a period New Hudson sprung forks frame. Displayed in the vendor’s private collection for the last few years, it will need recommissioning before use, but the engine turns over and it will be supplied with a copy of an owner’s manual and a V5C. One of Vincent’s last products, this little bike will be a fascinating talking point at any enthusiast gathering.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Entry by catalogue and can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people)
