While Stevenage has produced many notable things - such as Brutalist architecture and Lewis Hamilton - it is undoubtedly the Vincent V-Twin that remains its most charismatic creation. Launched in 1937 with the A Series, this bike quickly became a benchmark: exceptional performance, innovative design and striking looks make it one of the greatest success stories of the classic British motorbike.

All seemed well until September 1955, when the company abruptly announced that it would cease production. The news hit like a bombshell: Britain's finest motorbikes were about to disappear, even though only 100 more of the brand-new Rapide D Series (introduced six months earlier) were still to be produced.

A cutting-edge model, the Rapide D featured long-travel suspension and an improved V-Twin engine with coil ignition and Amal Monobloc carburettors. Designed as a true Grand Tourer, it was nevertheless perceived as a pure sports car, and despite the praise of Philip Vincent himself, production ended with just 460 units made.

Today, it is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after British motorbikes.

This 1955 example was professionally restored in 2023 by Legend Motor Sports to its original specification. It is a model in exceptional condition - elegant, powerful and ready to ride. A rare model not to be missed.

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We ask that a non-refundable fee is paid if you are the lucky winner of the auction or if your bid is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific fees.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as is", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and it is customary to carry out a full vehicle inspection prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or tender price, as specified in the advert.

✓ We want the transaction to go as smoothly as you do, which is why UK-registered cars and motorbikes offered for sale on Car & Classic are HPI-checked to ensure they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not financially pledged, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written off as part of a total loss at the time the advert is placed on Car & Classic and provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the status of the vehicle and it is always worth carrying out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third party transport company who can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected].