Big deals at Bonhams | Oldest surviving Vincent Rapide Series-A up for grabs at auction

Bonhams Auctioneers have revealed early details of their Autumn Stafford Sale line-up, with pre-war vintage machinery expected to fetch big money.

Headlining the October 12-13 auction is a 1936 Vincent-HRD Rapide Series-A available for £240,000-£280,000 and a 1928 Brough Superior SS100 Alpine Grand Sport, expected to fetch between £140,000-£180,000.

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The Vincent, described as “arguably the most significant V-twin of the Twentieth Century,” is just the second of only 78 machines to roll off the production line pre-war and is reportedly the oldest surviving complete example.

Following a “painstaking” 18-year restoration, the Rapide Series-A received the accolade of ‘Best Machine of Technical Interest’ at the Classic MotorCycle Show, Stafford in 2017 before being placed in the owner’s living room on display.

Bonhams say the Brough featured is a “unique opportunity for discerning enthusiasts and collectors.” It has reportedly remained in dry storage since its purchase in 1982 for £2400, having been practically unused.

What sets this example aside is a set of matching frame and engine numbers, with full history complementing the bike’s value too.

Accompanying documentation reveals it was initially supplied to Malcolm Vincent Ambler, Chief Motor Engineer at Shell Marketing before changing hands several times, including coming under the ownership of speedway champion and wall of death rider, Clem Beckett.

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Beckett founded the Dirt Track Riders’ Association and later fought in Spanish Civil War where he died whilst providing covering fire for comrades during the Battle of Jarama in 1937.

Lator on, during Harry Muckalt’s ownership in the 1950s, the Brough underwent a rebuild and was modified with KTOR cylinders, enhancing its capacity to from 998cc to 1134cc.