RARE VINCENT BLACK SHADOW AT STAFFORD

A factory special Vincent Black Shadow race bike from 1951 is one of more than 100 classic bikes that will be showcased at this year’s Stafford Bike Show.

Considered by many to be the world’s first superbike, the Vincent Black Shadow was built with the same labour-intensive hand-fitting of bearings and major engine parts that Vincent had used prior to the war, with a top speed in excess of 130mph. One of these exceptional bikes will be on the private entries stand at The International Classic MotorCycle Show sponsored by Carole Nash.

The show which takes place from April 20-21, 2024 at the Stafford County Showground plays host to tons of carefully restored and preserved machines exhibited in their best possible condition for the award judges and thousands of visitors. This year, visitors can also see an Aston Martin Brough 001 that’s one of only 100 ever built, with this being number 35 off the production line.

Rare finds from other British manufacturers like Cotton, Norton, Sunbeam, BSA and Triumph will feature heavily in the show. International manufacturers are also represented as entries from manufactures such as Suzuki, Laverda and Harley-Davidson will be highlighted. Alongside the machines on the show’s club stands, the private entries will compete for a host of awards including the coveted Best in Show.

With nearly 100 motorcycle clubs present at the show, you’ll never have a dull moment. The Ducati Owners Club are leading the charge this year with their 50th anniversary celebration. The Ariel Leader & Arrow Club are spotlighting a one-year-only machine the Ariel Arrow 200 on its 65-year anniversary. Not to be outdone, the British Owners Club (Essex) are marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings and Operation Overlord. On display will be 11 allied motorcycles of various makes plus a large collection of military equipment and memorabilia. If that’s not enough, the club is also celebrating 50 years together.

This year’s special guests at Stafford are celebrated TT icon Phillip McCallen on Saturday and renowned motorcycle racer and TV presenter Guy Martin on Sunday. Both guests will participate in live interviews on their respective days.