1954 Vincent Black Shadow

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The first model from Vincent was the Rapide, followed by the Black Shadow in response to a demand for a more "sports oriented model". The Black Shadow was developed from an early-model Rapide that had been specially tuned by factory tester and racer George Brown, his brother Cliff and designer Phil Irving. With relatively minor modifications, such as enlarged ports, bigger carburettors and increased compression, the test model, known as "Gunga Din",gave 55 bhp (41 kW), creating the basis for the Black Shadow. The Black Shadow proved very popular and its production overtook the Rapide. The Black Shadow's engine, instead of being cradled in a set of frame rails, was suspended from above, becoming a stressed member, or integral part, of the structure. More info on this bike Here