The desirable model C Comet is considered the ultimate Vincent 500 single. Noted for it’s superb high performance, roadholding, steering and brakes, it was arguably the best 500cc single ever produced by a British motorcycle company.
The Purposeful stance of this Vincent is set off by the shining black paintwork and original specification. The originality, condition and low mileage make this bike a great show-piece and great rideable choice.
Steadily rising in value, the Vincent Comet (and indeed ‘The Vincent’ badge!) is increasingly becoming a popular British bike to own and cherish.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
First registered on the 1st October 1952
V5 present (in previous owner’s name)
Handwritten history from 1988
Recent servicing and parts invoices
Some old tax discs
Previous MOT’s
Last Pass MOT in 2007 at 15,938 miles (exempt)
Taxed until 1st May 2024 (exempt)
Early history isn’t currently available, but we can determine from handwritten notes that this fine bike was purchased by a gentleman in Essex in 1988. A member of the Vincent Owners Club, he enjoyed taking it to events such as the 1000 Bike, Coupes Moto Légende, Isle of Man TT, European Classic Show at Chatham, Battlesbridge Classic Motorcycle Show, and many more.
Said to have been maintained regardless of cost, the aforementioned document also states that the bike was loaned to a museum by the owner’s wife, and afterwards ‘will be used for shows, etc by daughter and son-in-law’, who were latterly, the registered keepers.
There are no records of an earlier cosmetic restoration or maintenance but there are a few recent invoices for parts from Conway Motors, The VOC Spares Co Ltd, and Grove Classic Motorcycles Ltd during 2023. A service and replacement of some oil seals was carried out in August 2023.
It should be noted that the crankcase mating number ‘50P’ is not correct for the engine ‘F5AB/2A/9257’. The engine number has been altered to match the frame, and the original engine ‘F5AB/2A/9257’ with the correct crankcase mating numbers, as per the factory records, exists elsewhere.
THE CONDITION
Excellent glossy paintwork
Backbone frame in great shape
Excellent Smiths speedometer and reasonable Miller Ammeter
New grips and good levers
Great fuel tank and decals
Decent chrome and polished aluminium components
Clear Miller headlight and Britax rear light
Comfortable twin saddle
Side and rear stands plus recent new centre stand
Shiny alloy mudguards with two-piece rear
Excellent original spec’ chrome/painted wheels
Avon Speedmaster tyres with good tread levels
THE MECHANICS
498cc OHV Single
Factory spec. of 28 bhp @ 5,800 rpm with a compression of 7.3:1
Burman BAP Four-speed gearbox
Multi-plate clutch
Amal carburettor
Lucas magneto
Girdraulic front forks
Cantilever rear suspension with twin hydraulic damping
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