... but not as we know it!
Vincent Firefly
by Peter Green
In 1952 the hallowed halls of the Vincent-HRD Owners' Club were trembling with anticipation. The Stevenage factory had intimated that a new model was about to be announced to the motor cycling press. Prospective purchasers waited impatiently, cheque books at the ready. Prospective record-breakers postponed their attempts with their current machines.
In 1953 the same hallowed halls were trembling with shock. The manufacturers of "The World's Fastest Standard motorcycle - This is a Fact, not a Slogan!" had announced a clip-on engine of 45cc - the Firefly! Indignation filled the pages of 'MPH', the esteemed journal of the VOC. It is certain that, if a Firefly owner attempted to join the Club in 1953, he would have received a very frosty welcome indeed!
