Vincent Brings $43,000

NORTH KINGSTON, RI – Peter Kettle of Fitchburg, MA was surprised when the bidding ended and he’d won a 1948 Vincent “Series B” Rapide for a mere $43,000. “I didn’t expect I’d get it at that price to be honest,” he was overheard saying moments later as others crowded around the offer congratulations.

Peter Kettle accepts congratulations

Among those offering his hand was the Vincent’s longtime and now former owner, Harry Martin of Chepachet, RI, who acquired it some 40 years ago. “It had changed hands. It was in several cardboard boxes,” said the 72-year-old Martin said, recalling the acquisition. He got it back together and turned it into a rider.

Harry Martin, right, congratulates Peter Kettle

Martin last rode it in June. “It’s sad that it’s going, but I’m glad that it’s found another home,” he said. Kettle plans to ride it as well. “It will be looked after,” he promised.

Peter Kettle and Harry Martin

The Vincent was one of roughly 250 motorcycles that were auctioned here today by J. Wood and Company, nearly all of them belonging to Gordon Razee, owner of Razee Motorcycle Center.

Jerry Wood, left, auctions the Vincent with the help of Steve Dance

The Vincent, though, was the plum of the event, which attracted hundreds of motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors. Kettle qualifies as both. He collects British bikes and among the brands in his collection are Velocette, Norton, BSA, Triumph and, now, a Vincent.

“It’s the first one that I’ve got and I’ve got it,” he said. He views it not only as a piece of motorcycle history worthy of riding, but as an investment, too. “My money’s better in that bike than in the bank,” he said.

Peter Kettle, right, the 1948 Vincent Rapide

Considering how rare Vincent motorcycles are and how they have a way of appreciating, Kettle couldn’t have made a better purchase.

– Bud Wilkinson