A classic bike manufacturer from Stevenage has been celebrated by one of the old town’s local businesses.
Bike Stop in the High Street unveiled a painting of Vincent motorcycle in their shop to commemorate the brand which was formerly produced in the town.
The Vincent factory stood on the sight of Thomas Alleyne Academy and manufactured bikes between 1928 and 1955 – including the 1948 Black Shadow which was the world’s fastest production motorcycle at the time – before declaring bankrupcy.
Bike Stop director Martin Brown, spoke to the Comet to explain more about the company and the shops new painting.
“Our business is 30 years old and we love being part of the old town but what I feel is the unsung hero of the High Street is the truly amazing Vincent motorcycle,” he said.
“It was actually produced here up until 1955 so there is true motorcycle history and heritage here, just 200 yards from the shop.
“The opportunity to celebrate what is a truly magnificent brand was too good to miss. So I said to the artist, at the next opportunity you get I would like a painting of a Vincent for the shop.
“We reached out to the Vincent Owners Club, they were part of the paintings unveiling and they brought a bike down as well.
“Getting a Vincent down to its birthplace was incredible.”
Martin explained that Vincent bikes have become a sought after for motorcycle enthusiast, comparing them to famous car manufacturers Aston Martin.
“The bikes are incredible collector’s items, often going for good six-figure fees,” he said.
“There’s not many of them and they go for a lot of money.
“They are popular because number one, they are British, and number two, they are very fast.
“They are seen as the Aston Martin of the bike world. British, fast, record breaking and a bit special.”
Classic British motorcycle companies such as Triumph and Norton have returned in recent years, acheiving a lot of sales success, and Martin is keen to seen Vincent make a return.
“Vincent hasn’t come back to life unfortunately.
“A lot of the classic bike manufacturers have come back but Vincent hasn’t and I don’t know why.
“It would be great to see them come back.”
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