1935 Vincent-HRD 498cc Series-A Comet, Registration no. YXG 978 Frame no. Upper frame no. D1053 Rear Frame no.D1032 Engine no. C82
? Rare Series-A
? One of only a few 'intermediate sump' type
? Matching engine, rear frame member and gearbox
? Complete restoration by Glyn Johnson
HRD gained their initials from Howard Raymond Davies, the founder of the company in 1924. Davies utilised JAP engines initially, and achieved a Senior TT victory on a machine of his own manufacture in 1924. However, financial troubles lay ahead and, in 1927, HRD was placed in voluntary liquidation by its founder. It was acquired by young engineer Philip Vincent, with financial backing from his father. After an initial flirtation with Swiss-made MAG engines, Vincent settled on JAP engines, as his predecessor had, and introduced his trademark rear-sprung frame. A Rudge 'Python' engine was offered as an alternative to the JAP, but, unimpressed by the standard of 'bought-in' engines, Vincent and fellow engineer Phil Irving designed their own engine for 1934, with their high-camshaft layout. Initial models with this engine were the Meteor and Comet, later variations being the Comet Special and the TT model. The Rapide twin was to follow in 1936, but production lasted only until war broke out in 1939.
The vendor purchased YXG 978 in approximately 2010, in a poor state and in need of attention. It is one of possibly six known examples of the 'intermediate sump' type, made when the factory was still refining the design. When purchased, the bike was missing its upper frame member, and the owner was very fortunate to locate and purchase an original UFM which was very close in number to the original. He entrusted the restoration to well-known and well-respected Vincent HRD restorer Glyn Johnson, who carried out a total restoration to his usual high standard. Work was completed in 2015, and after test mileage had been covered, the bike was prepared for display by Glyn, as the owner intended to keep it on display rather than use it. If the machine is to be used by a new owner, it will need oils and petrol replenishing and careful re-commissioning. We understand that Glyn Johnson would be prepared to carry this work out on a commercial basis for a new owner if he wished to use the machine.
The history file includes photocopies of the Engine Specification Sheet and Works Order Form, which detail that this Comet was despatched on 24th November 1935 to a customer named Lovett, equipped with Amal carburettor, BTH Magenerator, and Dunlop saddle. It still has the original engine, rear frame and gearbox. Other documentation accompanying YXG 978 includes a current V5C, VOC dating certificate, photographs and miscellaneous papers.
As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
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? Rare Series-A
? One of only a few 'intermediate sump' type
? Matching engine, rear frame member and gearbox
? Complete restoration by Glyn Johnson
HRD gained their initials from Howard Raymond Davies, the founder of the company in 1924. Davies utilised JAP engines initially, and achieved a Senior TT victory on a machine of his own manufacture in 1924. However, financial troubles lay ahead and, in 1927, HRD was placed in voluntary liquidation by its founder. It was acquired by young engineer Philip Vincent, with financial backing from his father. After an initial flirtation with Swiss-made MAG engines, Vincent settled on JAP engines, as his predecessor had, and introduced his trademark rear-sprung frame. A Rudge 'Python' engine was offered as an alternative to the JAP, but, unimpressed by the standard of 'bought-in' engines, Vincent and fellow engineer Phil Irving designed their own engine for 1934, with their high-camshaft layout. Initial models with this engine were the Meteor and Comet, later variations being the Comet Special and the TT model. The Rapide twin was to follow in 1936, but production lasted only until war broke out in 1939.
The vendor purchased YXG 978 in approximately 2010, in a poor state and in need of attention. It is one of possibly six known examples of the 'intermediate sump' type, made when the factory was still refining the design. When purchased, the bike was missing its upper frame member, and the owner was very fortunate to locate and purchase an original UFM which was very close in number to the original. He entrusted the restoration to well-known and well-respected Vincent HRD restorer Glyn Johnson, who carried out a total restoration to his usual high standard. Work was completed in 2015, and after test mileage had been covered, the bike was prepared for display by Glyn, as the owner intended to keep it on display rather than use it. If the machine is to be used by a new owner, it will need oils and petrol replenishing and careful re-commissioning. We understand that Glyn Johnson would be prepared to carry this work out on a commercial basis for a new owner if he wished to use the machine.
The history file includes photocopies of the Engine Specification Sheet and Works Order Form, which detail that this Comet was despatched on 24th November 1935 to a customer named Lovett, equipped with Amal carburettor, BTH Magenerator, and Dunlop saddle. It still has the original engine, rear frame and gearbox. Other documentation accompanying YXG 978 includes a current V5C, VOC dating certificate, photographs and miscellaneous papers.
As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
Sale price
Time, Location
Auction House
