1952 Vincent Black Shadow C Series

Why this vehicle?
The Vincent Black Shadow is in a class all its own. Owning one is an opportunity most will only dream about. The first true superbike, the Vincent Black Shadow was so far ahead of its time in styling and technology it’s easy to see how it retains such a following today. Capable of speeds in excess of 125 mph in stock form and on the morning of September 13, 1948, broke the land speed record with a speed of 150.313 mph the performance of this motorcycle is impressive even by today's standards.

At the production numbers of just over 1700 the Black Shadow was a rare motorcycle in its day, now most will only be able to see photos. By using features such as using the engine as a stressed member, aluminum girder forks and a patented rear suspension the bikes lightweight and excellent handling complemented the engine's broad power curve to provide the rider with a truly unique experience rivaled by no other motorcycle at the time.

Vehicle History/Condition:
Its owner prior to 2003 had this Black Shadow restored by renowned Vincent specialist Mike White from Canada, where he worked on it for many years. It exchanged ownership very briefly before being sold to one of the most recognizable names accompanied by Vincent-Motorcycles, Herb Harris in September 2003. Herb then sold it to whom its current owner bought it from, the late Bud Lyons who is known for the Lyons Family Collection of Cars and Bikes.

Its current owner first learned about the Vincent Shadow from Sports Car Market Letter as it was advertised by Paul Russel, a reliable representative known for selling vehicles from the Bud Lyons Collection. He then went on to complete the purchase for the Vincent the very next day.

It was then stored in a climate-controlled garage until 2012 when it was titled. He wanted to leave the bike in as close to perfect condition as possible so only enjoyed about 50 miles on it. It was then brought to Mark Allen's Rear Drive and had him review and make adjustments to the whole bike. During this time as many months go by and over $10,000 spent on improvements the bike was Perfect.

In 2017 the owner made the decision to start prepping the Motorcycle for sale, and what better place to bring it to than Herb Harris himself being the go-to-vincent shop and prior owner. After another $10k worth of improvements, the bike was in top running condition both cosmetic and mechanical.

Specifications/Value Added Improvements:
Engine no. F10AB/1B/8471
Upper Frame Member No: RC 11925 B/C
Rear Frame Member No: RC 10371 B/C
Case Matching Numbers: ZZ 35

This Vincent while having partially-matching Frame numbers and engine numbers, it was fully restored by HVG in 2004. Since its restoration, it has only accumulated 105 miles displayed on its Smiths 5 150 MPH Speedometer. HVG used as many original matching parts as possible when applicable.

Work Completed by Harris Vincent Gallery

Oct/Nov 2017:

• Inspect Fuel system
• New Spark Plugs
• Carburetor Serviced & Cleaned
• New Carburetor Gaskets
• Airslide Levers Cleaned & Adjusted
• Installed New VOC-Approved Dave Hills Centre stand
• Oil Service

Dec/Jan 2020:

• Replaced Magneto replace w/ Updated DOUG WOOD KVF 50 Magneto Unit.
• New Hi Tension Ignition Leads
• Perform Final Tune using Degree Wheel and TDC Gauge for Timing Verification
• Used Exhaust Gas Analyzer for Carburater Setup

• New Podtronics Voltage Regulator
• Replaced Dynamo (PR 24/1)
• Oil & Filter Element Service
• Carburetor Cleaned

Comprehensive Inspection Highlights:
We performed comprehensive vehicle inspection as well as maintenance and service updates. The entire vehicle was checked by our master technician who specializes in Motorcycles of all kinds. The bike had all functions tested. Including, electrical, drivability, and accessories.

Next Service: Inspection, oil and filter element change due at 1000 miles.

Tires:
Front: Dunlop 20 x WM1
Rear: Dunlop 19 x 2
(Drilled for exact Wincent Wheel Weights)

About Us:
Because of the extensive inspection process, we perform, each car is pre-qualified for the industry’s best-extended vehicle care coverage at favorable rates.

Almost 30 years ago, we at AlphaCars & Motorcycles, established the highest imaginable standards for the quality of our hand-selected vehicles. With no deviation, these standards are maintained today. Without exception, each vehicle must pass a rigorous technical inspection followed by the most thorough service work and concourse level detailing.

Expect to Be Impressed! This is one of the fine vehicles from our hand-selected inventory. Work with a knowledgeable and reputable team of professionals from AlphaCars & Motorcycles. We appreciate your business and will handle your transaction with expertise. Give us a call and see how buying a vehicle can be enjoyable and fun!

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