At Naked Racer Moto Co., we are thrilled to present an opportunity to own one of the most coveted and iconic motorcycles in history: the 1952 Vincent Black Shadow. This legendary machine, recognized as the fastest production motorcycle in the world for over 20 years, is a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts. With its rich history, unparalleled performance, and cutting-edge features for its era, the Black Shadow remains a symbol of engineering excellence. Even more remarkable, the motorcycle we have available comes with a very prestigious provenance—this particular bike was Fritz Egli’s own personal black shadow that he owned and tuned for many years to be one of the fastest and best handling Vincent’s ever, Fritz Egli is the renowned Swiss motorcycle racer and frame designer one of very few motorcycle legend’s associated with Vincent’s incredible and  illustrious history. Read more about Fritz by following this link.

A Brief History of the Vincent Black Shadow

Manufactured by Vincent Motorcycles, the Black Shadow was introduced in the late 1940s, when the British company was at the forefront of performance motorcycle design. Founded by Phil Vincent in 1924, the company’s dedication to speed and precision was exemplified by the Black Shadow designed by Australian engineer Phil Irving, a model that would go on to make history. Its racing variant, the Vincent Black Lightning, reached a legendary milestone when Rolland Free broke records at the Bonneville Salt Flats in 1948, hitting a jaw-dropping 150.31 mph (241 km/h).

Produced from 1948 to 1955, the Black Shadow quickly became known as the pinnacle of performance motorcycles. With only 1,774 units ever built, it remains one of the rarest and most sought-after motorcycles in the world.

Performance That Defines a Generation

Under the sleek black exterior lies the heart of this beast—a 998cc V-twin engine producing 55 horsepower. With its torque-heavy engine, the Black Shadow could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest motorcycles of its time. At its peak, this motorcycle could achieve a top speed of 125 mph (201.2 km/h), setting it apart as the fastest production motorcycle on the planet.

Innovative Features

The 1952 Vincent Black Shadow was ahead of its time in both design and technology. Key innovations included:

Engine as a stressed member: The engine was integral to the frame, reducing weight and adding rigidity, which improved handling and reduced vibration.
Girdraulic front fork: A revolutionary hybrid of girder and hydraulic forks, which offered superior suspension performance and handling at high speeds.
Cantilever rear suspension: Pioneering a smooth ride, this suspension setup was groundbreaking in the early 1950s and provided unmatched comfort for long-distance riders.
Double front drum brakes with cooling fins: These high-performance brakes delivered exceptional stopping power, making riding safer without compromising speed.
Dry clutch: Unlike the traditional wet clutches of its time, the dry clutch ensured a cleaner, more efficient transmission of power and reduced maintenance needs.

These features made the Black Shadow a technological marvel and a benchmark for future motorcycle design.

Exceptional Handling for High-Speed Performance

Built for speed and stability, the Black Shadow’s combination of a lightweight frame and powerful engine gave it an excellent power-to-weight ratio, contributing to its agility. The long wheelbase further enhanced its stability at high speeds, making it one of the most comfortable high-performance motorcycles to ride even at its top speed.

Specifications Summary

Engine Displacement: 998cc
Horsepower: 55 hp
Top Speed: 125 mph (201.2 km/h)
Weight: 227 kg
Fuel Capacity: 15.8 liters
Wheelbase: 1435 mm
Suspension: Girdraulic front fork, cantilever rear with dual shocks
Brakes: Front: double drum with cooling fins; Rear: drum
Transmission: 4-speed
Tires: Front 3.00 x 19, Rear 4.00 x 19

A Rare Opportunity for Collectors

The 1952 Vincent Black Shadow is a masterpiece of motorcycle history—an engineering marvel that remains a sought-after jewel in the world of classic motorcycles. Whether you’re an avid collector, a racing enthusiast, or someone who appreciates groundbreaking design, this Vincent Black Shadow offers an unparalleled ownership experience. Its rich history, including ownership by Fritz W. Egli, makes it even more special.

If you are in search of a truly unique and iconic motorcycle to add to your collection, don’t miss the chance to own this legendary machine. Contact us at Naked Racer Moto Co. today to learn more about this exceptional 1952 Vincent Black Shadow and take the first step toward making it yours.