``The Vincent'' Makes Stunning Return; Four New Prototypes of the Legendary Motorcycle Unveiled
RANCHO SANTA FE, Calif.--Oct. 14, 2002--Vincent Motors USA(R), a San Diego company bringing back the legendary Vincent motorcycle, unveiled five prototypes to media and investors at a gala event held recently at the home of Vincent Motors Founder and President, Bernard Li.In its day, "The Vincent" was the world's most exclusive and technologically advanced motorcycle. The Vincent Black Shadow(TM) set a land speed record in 1948 of 150.313 mph. Throughout its history, the Vincent set the standards by which modern motorcycles have been judged.
"Since the earliest days of working on the new Vincent project, I have been constantly amazed by the responsiveness in the marketplace in terms of both volume and intensity," said Li. "The turnout at our invitation-only event was twice what we expected. The people were extremely excited about the motorcycles."
The event marked the first time the public could view the new designs. In addition to the Phase I prototype, based on the 1955 Black Lightning, Vincent Motors unveiled four modern prototypes to rave reviews, including the Black Shadow(TM), Black Lightning "S"(TM), Black Lightning "ST"(TM) and the Black Eagle(TM).
Beginning in 1994, Li, a San Diego entrepreneur and motorcycle enthusiast, began acquiring the trademarks to the Vincent name. In 1998 Li sold Eagle One(R), his high-end car care business, to Valvoline and began working full-time to bring back the Vincent brand. Vincent Motors USA was formally launched in 1998 and by summer 2002 the company had completed five prototypes.
About Vincent Motors USA
Vincent Motors USA is focused on designing, manufacturing, and marketing a modern Vincent motorcycle, consistent with its tradition of legendary performance. James Parker and Detroit's Roush Industries(R) were contracted to design and engineer the new motorcycles. In September 2001, Vincent and American Honda Motor Co. Inc. signed a letter of intent relating to Honda's supply of drivetrains based on Honda's RC51 platform. Vincent and Honda are currently in negotiations for a formal supply agreement for the purchase and sale of Honda's 1000cc, V-Twin, water cooled, dual cam, four valve, fuel injected 130 hp RC51-based engine."
Vincent Motors USA is headquartered in San Diego.
Editor's Note: Photos of the Black Lightning "S" are available. Please email Chris Dale at cdale@mentusonline.com with your request.
Vincent, the Vincent logo, Black Lightning, Black Eagle and Black Shadow are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vincent Motors USA. All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.