I've been diagnosed with menieres disease, which means I can't ride due to debilitating dizziness attacks. I'd lost interest in literally everything including life at 58. Steroid injections seem to have cured the dizziness, but I'm still deaf with infuriating tinnitus. I'm going to stick my Thruxton back on the road, and go carefully, hope the reason to stay alive returns. "Drops of Jupiter"-Train.
Jay is such a rare beast. Very few edits in his videos. Calm as a cucumber yet passion bleating out of his ears. A true modern day gentleman. He is not afraid to say 'I don't know' yet we all know he knows a lot more than most. God bless you Sir
jay is indeed a true gent, i repeat, the TRUEST type who're getting harder and harder to find as time progresses. have been silently watching jay religiously since a few yrs after he opened the garage..(because)...there were a few staple based design's in the works that my mates and i wanted to send him but, then....you all know what started happening, culminated to, and is still happening....many, just a bit too many, are terribly missed. the execution on the 1/2 cap style spoiler of the rear proportion of this godet cafέ is just about the best done that i've ever seen. more power Mr Jay, and may you keep bringing us this level fun for many, many a year more
@@dragospahontu that’s not heart wrenching, it’s life - enjoy your youth while you can, and respect the elders in society. Time is a cruel mistress; she lures you in with her beauty that only serves to hide her unquenchable, unstoppable desire for desolation and death... that’s heart wrenching. But on the other hand, old age is also a gift; one that not everyone gets.
My post is entirely true but also written more to entertain than to darken. Given the right bike and the right trail, I could probably ride without falling. But it has been many-many years.
When he mentioned how he died at 68, and then himself and his age, I thought the same thing. How he is able to have this platform to share his knowledge to the masses, and how he still drives them, is a true treasure. Not only am I entertained by his videos, but also grateful for his videos.
Jay, please keep this format from now on. It's much more personal than camera guys constantly on the move and switching angles. Love this content way better!
I guess you mean Eglimotorcycles, Switzerland? But Jay's Egli-Vincent 1330 is from Godet Motorcycles, France. I don't know if they work together or not, yet it seems that Godet had Fritz Egli's agreement.
Yes..have stopped several times in Bettenwil myself as there is always something fun to see. At one time Fritz had a Tesla coil in his shop and did light up the town at night . To bad the Swiss DOT inspection had to be by the book . It did not go well with Fritz as one of the inspector told him the seat is not big enough .Fritz answer . It is big enough for a regular guy but guess for an Inspector with thier big a.. . they may be to small. I think he was happy to have them build in France as the Swiss know it all buerocrats are just a handful.
@@erhardbaehni1832 We also have our share of bureaucrats in France, yet they are possibly quite cool for small series of motorcycles. I remember the Egli's in the early 80s, ultralight and stiff frame with big japanese engines - The Egli CBX1000 - 6 cylinder was spectacular, and so light compared to the Honda donor...
I feel the same way about the Norton Commando. I will always remember the first ride; it was like a symphony of noise. I was absolutely amazed. And then I stomped on the rear brake, thinking I was downshifting, and immediately came to my senses.
I had a '73 750 Commando that I bought new. A few years earlier I'd had a Triumph Bonneville so I was used to the starboard shifter. However the top to bottom 1 N 2 3 4 shift pattern took a few rides to get used to.
I don't know. With all the police charity events he does for free, and the good PR he gives California police agencies. Not to mention the easy overtime that Jay pays for when he goes on one of his little Mulholland romps that requires a police escort. He won't be getting any tickets, or losing his license, in California any time soon.
@paleolithictech Cops probably love to pull him over, just to get a free tour of Jay's garage. I've seen him do some little "arrest" skits (lots of those kind of things happen on his CNBC version of JLG), but no cop tickets a guy with a police escort. I'm sure Jay has no worries at this point.
Not to take away from the two Gorgeous Vincent's of which I'm very grateful to see. Jay made two very good points in regard to riding that show how seasoned he is. The first was in regard to TH-camrs showing the speedometer. The second was the difference between a young person and an old person falling off a bike. True words of wisdom!
Jay is probably the only YT car enthusiast who loves bikes in addition to restoring and maintaining insane classics. All the others are just lead-footed entertainers.
I live in Holland and remember seeing an Egli Vincent once at the parking of the classic races at the circuit of Zolder in Belgium in 2005 or 2006 (I was 18 or 19 years old). I was impressed immediatly by the looks of both the engine and also by the bike itself. Since then I know that if I ever win the lottery I want to buy an Egli Vincent!
That is a super cool bike. When I turned 50 I bought a 400 thumper dirt bike. I got tired of dirt and started ridding more on the street and mountain roads. I kept seeing all these guys ridding the lay down type bikes so I test drove a Suzuki SV 650. It was a super fun bike but I found the ridding position was to tiring. I would leave the house in the morning with plans of having lunch in some far away mountain town but never completed it. By lunch time I was back home and ready for a nap. hehehe
Wow that's really heartening to hear that, I'm 73 next month and my wife thinks I should give up going out on my Kawasaki Z1000 as I'm getting to old. I started riding in the early 1960's and have had a good few bikes, started on Triumphs then Hondas plus plenty of 2 strokes like the H1 and RG 500 - It's a truly brilliant hobby - Jays an inspiration.
I was at Masham bike meet in the Yorkshire Dales (UK) last September on my 2018 Royal Enfield 500 and the Vincent Owners Club turned up. Yes, there was an Egli Vincent which is only the 2nd one I've seen in 45+ years of motorcycling. Wonderful! 5 other Vincents including a Black Shadow and a Comet 500.
I fell in love with this bike as a child, when I saw the Vincent Black Shadow in the pages of Cycle World magazine. I am a purist I love the original so did Peter Egan, but Elgi-Vincent is a fine machine, the "Vincati."
What an incredible bike for its time. I have been riding motorcycles for 54 years and close to Jay in age. Glad to say I am still riding an old BMW RT. Great video Jay!!
Thanks for taking us along for the ride, Jay. The bike sounds just great, it's a mechanical symphony. I'm still riding my 1975 Kawasaki Z1 900, it's a wonderful motorcycle but doesn't have the soul of the Vincent.
I love seeing you do another bike video Jay! When you said you were thrilled to still be riding at your age, it reminded me of something: I’m up in Vancouver and I saw a full dress HD Ultra Classic...in the middle of winter... in Canada (around 35-40 degrees, but no snow). I’m a Harley guy too so I went over to talk to the rider. When the helmet came off, I was shocked to see at first glance what appeared to be a frail looking Chinese man (but anyone who can get one of those touring bikes off their stand can’t be that frail). I was however, certain he was at least 80 years old. Thought it would be too rude to ask him how old he actually was, but I did ask him why he was on two wheels on such a frigid day. He told me about how he’s gone over a million miles on bikes in all kinds of weather, doing the Pan American highway from Alaska to Argentina, across the States west to east then back across Canada east to west, plus all kinds of epic dirt bike adventures in Europe and Asia. Then he said, he’s been riding for over 60 years, and if the sun is out and the roads are dry - he goes for a ride whether it’s for five minutes or five hours; because he knows that once he stops, he won’t be able to get back on. I couldn’t stop thinking about what he said, it was sad yet uplifting at the same time. Anyways, keep riding Jay! On another note, the first (and only) time I was threatened with that “exhibition of speed” charge, I was simply flabbergasted. I didn’t know there was such a law, and it took me a while to even understand what it means. It’s so ambiguous. I understand they don’t want you doing burn outs and drifting around corners. But think about this: you’re stopped and the light turns green. If you accelerate too fast, even without exceeding the limit (which is what what I did - no smoke, no wheel spin, didn’t chirp the gear change), that’s grounds for “exhibition of speed”... go figure.
That is the wonderful MC of all time, I would park that in my living room, to appreciate it! Due to circumstances, I had to quit riding a few years back but it’s gratifying to see it in the light of day, on the road, and not confined in a museum or in a speculators garage. JLG makes my day every week. Thanks again for showing that a vehicle collection is meant to drive or ride!
You twice made references to your age and being thankful you are still able to ride. I am 72 and feel exactly the same way. Got my first bike at 16 and been riding ever since.
Man I love Jay Leno, it's getting rare these days to watch show that present knowledge about cars and bikes.. most of the content is kids destroying cars or over modifying them just for views. Thank you Jay for this content and sharing your collection with us, we appreciate it very much.
Precisely, Godet-motorcycle workshop is near Rouen in Normandy, these guys wants to stay discrete to avoid having visitors each week 'cos this is not a shop it's a workshop, they don't sell motorcycles like a classic dealer. I'm a Normand guy, from Rouen. When i was a teenager i've been there and seen the workshop in late 2010 and This was a privilege ! ^^ I remember mister Godet was here and he talked to me and my father about their work. But in 2018 when he died i didn't look at motorcycle world for a while so i was not aware his death .. RIP a little late So thanks to Jay Leno and his visibility to talk about this story and to have and maintain this splendid Godet made cafe racer (i remember i've seen such a model but in orange at Godet workshop) He talk about that little ol' Normand garage with these passionate peoples really doing a silversmith job. It's precise, made with excellence Beautiful story ..
Beautiful bike in black wow! Long and low and that torpedo tank - looks fast just sitting there. Never heard of Egli, but great to hear these stories! I can imagine their shop near the beach in Normandy.... 🌊🇫🇷🏍🏁
Please don’t fall off Jay..don’t even speak of it..you need to be around for many more years..your stuff on here keeps me sane & smiling & I’m pretty sure I’m not the alone. May you live a very long, healthy & happy life my good man ! 😉🙏🏻
I am a member of the Vincent family and a distant relation to the Mr. Vincent. Sadly these bikes have gotten so valuable that I do not know of anyone in the family who even has any parts in their possession. It is nice to see the family name on something and hear other people say nice things about it. Thanks jay for protecting the family legacies of so many builders & engineers.
I love your collection. You are made to preserve history. Hope they make a new category noble prize for “preserving automobile history” and you will be the nominate and the winner for it. Thank you SIR.
Remember Patrick well, and a sad thing it was to hear of his passing. Working on a lightweight Norvin for someone here in London,which is a lot more pared down ....
What I love about Jay is even when he is riding such an epic bike and having a great time, he is so passionate about spreading knowledge about these legendary vehicles even while riding them which is crazy hard to do haha
"Nothing has a sole like a Vincent 52" - lyrics by Richard Thompson "1952 Vincent Black Lightning". Great song - which I saw Richard perform live - one I needed to tick off my bucket list. Aussie Phil Irving ( along with Phil Vincent ) penned the engine back in the day and there is a modern interpretation ( race bikes ) made by the Horner Bros called an "Irving Vincent" - many models, culminating in the 1600cc 4 valve fire breathing monster - pieces of rolling art.
They are a beautiful bike. I think they were the greatest looking bikes of all time. I've never seen the updated version but had a Vincent in my family when I was a kid. I cut my teeth on a 46 Knuckle and owned a square four 1956 the last year. I really liked this video and thanks for showing us a true bike of Royalty.
My 1971 300 pound Kawasaki three cylinder took me quickly to 120mph which, I am not embarrassed to say, scared my quite righteously. I cannot imagine riding the light Vincent faster. Go Jay!
As always, thank you Mr. Leno for another 15 minutes of genuine entertainment. I just wanted to say I love the new (?) black helmet and that it looks much better on you than the last one and matches your coat and most of your old bikes perfectly.
I don’t know what it is. I love Jay Leno’s Garage, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed probably hundreds of JLG videos featuring vehicles from two to four wheels - many of which I’m not going to nor aspire to own. And I enjoyed this one, too. So I don’t know what it is but I just don’t care for this Vincent. I don’t know why. But please Jay don’t stop doing these! The only channel I’m subscribed to that missing a post isn’t options
Mr. Leno- Thanks for this great review of a great bike! I got my "cafe racer" 2006 Triumph Thruxton with my combat pay as soon as I could after getting back from lovely Afghanistan; I had gotten ahold of a bike magazine which featured this machine and I longed for it while there. It's not as powerful or light as your Vincent, but the fun is probably a lot the same. Bob
What I like about this channel is that Jay makes things interesting that I wouldn’t normally be into. Like I’m not a motorcycle guy at all but I still enjoy these videos because I know Jay is going to provide a lot of history and trivia.
Definitely an underappreciated custodian of automotive history. Always nice to see all of your choice examples not just collecting dust, not to mention the history lesson. Thank you for the passion you have for such a functional preservation.
I agree! So many 'collectors' are ultimately collectors of dust, as it winds up coating their bikes, cars, and guitars as they languish unused, voices silenced by their captors. Not so with Jay, thank G-d. He obviously loves using his machines for their intended purpose, as he gives us the gift of seeing them in action. Awesome.
Love, love, love watching Jay! He’s just a guy. A very grounded guy. Celebrity. Wealthy. Famous. But totally unaffected by any of it. I love it when Jay refers to himself as perhaps the president of the more money than brains club! Self depreciation is Jay’s charm. I’m not the only one that loves him, either.
In 1970, I lived in Summerville, SC. Across the street was a guy with 2 bikes. One was a Norton 500 that had been a racer in England. The other was a Vincent Black Lightning. There were only about 300 of the Black Lightnings made. Every Sunday from March through the end of September, he would put both bikes in the driveway (when it wasn't a rainy day) and steam clean both, whether he'd driven either of them or not during the week. Neither of them had a starter and had to be pushed to start them up. I've never seen a Black Lightning since nor before.
Both are beautiful in their own specific way. I had the luck to ride a clean Vincent a few years back in France, everything Jay says about that bike is true. An unique experience.
Just today I saw a Ducati 1098 parked and reflected that I’ve always thought they are THE best looking bike ever made. I need to qualify that now as the best faired bike. This is the best looking naked by far. Thanks jay.
Its a lot fun and I am totally delighted to see this old motorcycle still in action. There is really an awesome feel thats hard to explain after watching this. U r great Jay.
I can relate Jay, I'm 74 and enjoy riding my Royal Enfield Interceptor, it's the absolute closest modern bike to a Brit twin of the sixties. When I was 18 I had a Triumph Bonneville TT special set up for street use. We used to drool over Vincents and Nortons.
My first bike was a 1979 Triumph Bonneville 750 purchased from Redline Motorcycles in Santa Barbara. John had a Vincent Black Shadow in his front window. God what a beautiful motorcycle. My Triumph was setup as a cafe racer with Norton Dunstall mufflers. Drop handlebars and a dust bin fairing completed the picture. It was agile but fellow riders worried at how the rear end would hop around. Always went where I pointed it and at a fast pace.
I tried to do the right thing and gave up riding at 73. Really bad idea. Miss it so much. Keep it up as long as possible.
Well get back on her.
She's been waiting.
Quit crying. Go ride, dude!
I've been diagnosed with menieres disease, which means I can't ride due to debilitating dizziness attacks. I'd lost interest in literally everything including life at 58. Steroid injections seem to have cured the dizziness, but I'm still deaf with infuriating tinnitus. I'm going to stick my Thruxton back on the road, and go carefully, hope the reason to stay alive returns. "Drops of Jupiter"-Train.
If 2 wheels r out of the question 4 u, there always a trike!! 😋 so technically we can ride until we’re all bed ridden 🤪😅
@@EndeavorsDnB Yamaha Niken.
Jay is such a rare beast. Very few edits in his videos. Calm as a cucumber yet passion bleating out of his ears. A true modern day gentleman. He is not afraid to say 'I don't know' yet we all know he knows a lot more than most. God bless you Sir
Always wanted a motorcycle. NEVER got one, and now too old. Not too old to appreciate the great Brit bikes. Classics like Jay.
He would be a pleasure to know personally. He is really relatable and down to earth.
Instablaster
jay is indeed a true gent, i repeat, the TRUEST type who're getting harder and harder to find as time progresses.
have been silently watching jay religiously since a few yrs after he opened the garage..(because)...there were a few staple based design's in the works that my mates and i wanted to send him but, then....you all know what started happening, culminated to, and is still happening....many, just a bit too many, are terribly missed.
the execution on the 1/2 cap style spoiler of the rear proportion of this godet cafέ is just about the best done that i've ever seen.
more power Mr Jay, and may you keep bringing us this level fun for many, many a year more
Naw, I met him in the late 80's. He's arrogant as hell and generally doesn't even know what he is talking about.
Someone once said “the engine of the Vincent looks like it was put in the frame with a whip and a chair”. Stunning.
Years ago, I was happy for a long ride in the woods without falling once. Today, I'm happy to make it down the stairs in one piece.
Wow, that's heart wrenching.
@@dragospahontu that’s not heart wrenching, it’s life - enjoy your youth while you can, and respect the elders in society. Time is a cruel mistress; she lures you in with her beauty that only serves to hide her unquenchable, unstoppable desire for desolation and death... that’s heart wrenching. But on the other hand, old age is also a gift; one that not everyone gets.
My post is entirely true but also written more to entertain than to darken. Given the right bike and the right trail, I could probably ride without falling. But it has been many-many years.
You tube comments are so odd
The only time my body works is when I ride.
This is one of the most beautiful bikes I've ever seen.
I wonder how many of us kind of live a bit vicariously through Jay's garage. I know that I do. Some of his bikes and cars, are the stuff of dreams.
I feel about Jay the way he feels about the Vincent, he's a classic and there will never be another one like him. Ride on bro.😁
When he mentioned how he died at 68, and then himself and his age, I thought the same thing. How he is able to have this platform to share his knowledge to the masses, and how he still drives them, is a true treasure. Not only am I entertained by his videos, but also grateful for his videos.
Jay, please keep this format from now on. It's much more personal than camera guys constantly on the move and switching angles. Love this content way better!
I am living 10 miles from Eglis Garage. Nice to see that even US-guys know that stuff 👍🇨🇭
I guess you mean Eglimotorcycles, Switzerland? But Jay's Egli-Vincent 1330 is from Godet Motorcycles, France. I don't know if they work together or not, yet it seems that Godet had Fritz Egli's agreement.
Yes..have stopped several times in Bettenwil myself as there is always something fun to see.
At one time Fritz had a Tesla coil in his shop and did light up the town at night .
To bad the Swiss DOT inspection had to be by the book .
It did not go well with Fritz as one of the inspector told him the seat is not big enough .Fritz answer . It is big enough for a regular guy but guess for an Inspector with thier big a.. .
they may be to small.
I think he was happy to have them build in France as the Swiss know it all buerocrats are just a handful.
@@erhardbaehni1832 We also have our share of bureaucrats in France, yet they are possibly quite cool for small series of motorcycles. I remember the Egli's in the early 80s, ultralight and stiff frame with big japanese engines - The Egli CBX1000 - 6 cylinder was spectacular, and so light compared to the Honda donor...
@@FrenchCrow Cool!
@@FrenchCrow Hi, this video arrived today: TH-cam video: Godet-Egli-Vincent Motorcycle - Full Overview And Ride
I feel the same way about the Norton Commando. I will always remember the first ride; it was like a symphony of noise. I was absolutely amazed. And then I stomped on the rear brake, thinking I was downshifting, and immediately came to my senses.
That's funny. I down shifted instead of hitting the brake. That'll wake you up!
Going from Triumph to Harley.
Luckily these Godet Egli Vincents are converted to left foot shift.
I had a '73 750 Commando that I bought new. A few years earlier I'd had a Triumph Bonneville so I was used to the starboard shifter. However the top to bottom 1 N 2 3 4 shift pattern took a few rides to get used to.
Side note: the RC series Works Hondas from the 1960s were converted from left foot to right foot shift to accommodate the Englishmen riders.
I love the little happy puppy wag the fender gives after start-up (10:15). 😎
California Highway Patrol and other California law enforcement agencies:
Thank You for not taking Jay's license away.
I don't know. With all the police charity events he does for free, and the good PR he gives California police agencies. Not to mention the easy overtime that Jay pays for when he goes on one of his little Mulholland romps that requires a police escort. He won't be getting any tickets, or losing his license, in California any time soon.
@paleolithictech Cops probably love to pull him over, just to get a free tour of Jay's garage. I've seen him do some little "arrest" skits (lots of those kind of things happen on his CNBC version of JLG), but no cop tickets a guy with a police escort. I'm sure Jay has no worries at this point.
Sounds like the opening of a Springsteen song.
^p0po
Not to take away from the two Gorgeous Vincent's of which I'm very grateful to see. Jay made two very good points in regard to riding that show how seasoned he is. The first was in regard to TH-camrs showing the speedometer. The second was the difference between a young person and an old person falling off a bike. True words of wisdom!
Hi, I recall the " one ow! " days.
If I fell off that bike I'd be crying, not because it hurt but because the bike got damaged.
Another epic bike. I could watch these forever.
Just an incredibly beautyful Motorcycle! Both the black shadow as of course the Egli. For me its one of the most beautyful Engines ever build.
What a machine - now that folks is a motorcycle!
@AdventureDog indeed. I think TMF needs to try some old genuine classics out.
Amen !!! Except, that the Second cylinder is Overheating from the First cylinder that is standing in front of the second one.
These videos helped me get into cars in the 2000s and now they're helping me get into motorcycles. Love this bike!
..And I think to myself, what a wonderful weld..
L.O.L. Nice one.
Great comment, ahahah
Ffoeg Draw: That's a very nice and witty "one off". Thanks!
Jay is probably the only YT car enthusiast who loves bikes in addition to restoring and maintaining insane classics. All the others are just lead-footed entertainers.
I live in Holland and remember seeing an Egli Vincent once at the parking of the classic races at the circuit of Zolder in Belgium in 2005 or 2006 (I was 18 or 19 years old). I was impressed immediatly by the looks of both the engine and also by the bike itself. Since then I know that if I ever win the lottery I want to buy an Egli Vincent!
Wow that's a pretty bike! Reminds me of the 'Ogri' Vincent beloved of 'Bike' Magazine readers in the '70s.
That would include me Tim, Not sure if Ogri's was a Egli or a Norvin.
@@russcattell955i I think it was a Norvin. Ogri couldn't have afforded a hand-built French bike. But it had the same cafe racer look.
@@timgosling6189 I'm sure you are right but, Our Ogri was a resourceful super hero !
Ogri was the biker I wanted to be... Malcolm was the biker I *was!*
I'm drinking coffee from my Ogri mug.
I remember reading about this bike in a magazine. The cop story with the speedometer is hilarious.
He forgot to add, " And that's why we put the mirrors on. "
"It's uncomfortable and it's cramped..."
- and it's absolutely stunning!
Jay thank you for showing us vehicles we mortals would never see!!
That is a super cool bike. When I turned 50 I bought a 400 thumper dirt bike. I got tired of dirt and started ridding more on the street and mountain roads. I kept seeing all these guys ridding the lay down type bikes so I test drove a Suzuki SV 650. It was a super fun bike but I found the ridding position was to tiring. I would leave the house in the morning with plans of having lunch in some far away mountain town but never completed it. By lunch time I was back home and ready for a nap. hehehe
I'm not even a motorcycle fan but I love these videos because the motors sound so great on my stereo. Keep 'em coming Jay!
My neighbor is 92. Still goes out on his bike a couple times a week..
Wow that's really heartening to hear that, I'm 73 next month and my wife thinks I should give up going out on my Kawasaki Z1000 as I'm getting to old. I started riding in the early 1960's and have had a good few bikes, started on Triumphs then Hondas plus plenty of 2 strokes like the H1 and RG 500 - It's a truly brilliant hobby - Jays an inspiration.
Hero
A British magazine called Bike had a cartoon featuring a character called Ogri who rode elgi Vincent.Great video Jay ❤
😀 I liked Ogri . Didn’t know that’s what he rode .
I thought it was a Norvin rather than Egli because of the featherbed frame.?
@@leelambert9443 it was a Norvin. Vincent engine in a Norton featherbed frame.
Wings on his helmet ?
It was a NORVIN. JMC build them in the UK if you have a spare 50K or so.............
i remember Ross Langlitz had a Egli-Vincent, always good to see one. thanks.
I was at Masham bike meet in the Yorkshire Dales (UK) last September on my 2018 Royal Enfield 500 and the Vincent Owners Club turned up. Yes, there was an Egli Vincent which is only the 2nd one I've seen in 45+ years of motorcycling. Wonderful! 5 other Vincents including a Black Shadow and a Comet 500.
Anyone else love the way the rear mudguard/fender flexes in tune with the engine...?
Just commented on that :)
Count me in.
At 150mph it straightens out.
@@MrDLRu Like drag reduction.
So well made. 😂
Born in '54, this is my bike. Jay is way cool.
I fell in love with this bike as a child, when I saw the Vincent Black Shadow in the pages of Cycle World magazine. I am a purist I love the original so did Peter Egan, but Elgi-Vincent is a fine machine, the "Vincati."
Jay, there’s nothing I appreciate more, than your appreciation :-)
God Bless You! Viva Leno !!
What an incredible bike for its time. I have been riding motorcycles for 54 years and close to Jay in age. Glad to say I am still riding an old BMW RT. Great video Jay!!
Thanks for taking us along for the ride, Jay. The bike sounds just great, it's a mechanical symphony. I'm still riding my 1975 Kawasaki Z1 900, it's a wonderful motorcycle but doesn't have the soul of the Vincent.
I love seeing you do another bike video Jay! When you said you were thrilled to still be riding at your age, it reminded me of something: I’m up in Vancouver and I saw a full dress HD Ultra Classic...in the middle of winter... in Canada (around 35-40 degrees, but no snow). I’m a Harley guy too so I went over to talk to the rider. When the helmet came off, I was shocked to see at first glance what appeared to be a frail looking Chinese man (but anyone who can get one of those touring bikes off their stand can’t be that frail). I was however, certain he was at least 80 years old. Thought it would be too rude to ask him how old he actually was, but I did ask him why he was on two wheels on such a frigid day. He told me about how he’s gone over a million miles on bikes in all kinds of weather, doing the Pan American highway from Alaska to Argentina, across the States west to east then back across Canada east to west, plus all kinds of epic dirt bike adventures in Europe and Asia. Then he said, he’s been riding for over 60 years, and if the sun is out and the roads are dry - he goes for a ride whether it’s for five minutes or five hours; because he knows that once he stops, he won’t be able to get back on. I couldn’t stop thinking about what he said, it was sad yet uplifting at the same time. Anyways, keep riding Jay!
On another note, the first (and only) time I was threatened with that “exhibition of speed” charge, I was simply flabbergasted. I didn’t know there was such a law, and it took me a while to even understand what it means. It’s so ambiguous. I understand they don’t want you doing burn outs and drifting around corners. But think about this: you’re stopped and the light turns green. If you accelerate too fast, even without exceeding the limit (which is what what I did - no smoke, no wheel spin, didn’t chirp the gear change), that’s grounds for “exhibition of speed”... go figure.
That is the wonderful MC of all time, I would park that in my living room, to appreciate it! Due to circumstances, I had to quit riding a few years back but it’s gratifying to see it in the light of day, on the road, and not confined in a museum or in a speculators garage. JLG makes my day every week. Thanks again for showing that a vehicle collection is meant to drive or ride!
What a beautiful classic!
I love watching Jay Leno’s garage videos during quarantine. He creates a lot of entertaining coolest videos on TH-cam
Honestly prefer these to the full crew versions of the show. More intimate, more like hanging out with a friend.
That bikes a work of art. Absolutely beautiful.
Geez what an absolutely beautiful bike. The lines, eng, stance are a perfect example of what a cafe should look like.
I ride alone as well. When I was younger I'd go on runs with friends but now? Just an old guy, in the wind, poking along by himself!
I'm a club, but the only time i ride along is when there's an event, and the entire club comes along. Learnt long ago that what Jay is true.
That bike is so beautiful 😍
You twice made references to your age and being thankful you are still able to ride. I am 72 and feel exactly the same way. Got my first bike at 16 and been riding ever since.
What a beautiful story.
I've been riding for 50 years and I learn something new every time I watch your program. Thank you.
Man I love Jay Leno, it's getting rare these days to watch show that present knowledge about cars and bikes.. most of the content is kids destroying cars or over modifying them just for views. Thank you Jay for this content and sharing your collection with us, we appreciate it very much.
Precisely, Godet-motorcycle workshop is near Rouen in Normandy, these guys wants to stay discrete to avoid having visitors each week 'cos this is not a shop it's a workshop, they don't sell motorcycles like a classic dealer.
I'm a Normand guy, from Rouen. When i was a teenager i've been there and seen the workshop in late 2010 and This was a privilege ! ^^
I remember mister Godet was here and he talked to me and my father about their work.
But in 2018 when he died i didn't look at motorcycle world for a while so i was not aware his death .. RIP a little late
So thanks to Jay Leno and his visibility to talk about this story and to have and maintain this splendid Godet made cafe racer (i remember i've seen such a model but in orange at Godet workshop)
He talk about that little ol' Normand garage with these passionate peoples really doing a silversmith job. It's precise, made with excellence
Beautiful story ..
Beautiful bike in black wow! Long and low and that torpedo tank - looks fast just sitting there. Never heard of Egli, but great to hear these stories! I can imagine their shop near the beach in Normandy.... 🌊🇫🇷🏍🏁
Please don’t fall off Jay..don’t even speak of it..you need to be around for many more years..your stuff on here keeps me sane & smiling & I’m pretty sure I’m not the alone. May you live a very long, healthy & happy life my good man ! 😉🙏🏻
Thanks Jay. My Dad used to have the Black Prince in the fifties. I've just sent him the link to your video.
Best wishes, Rich.
Jay has another video on the Prince, go in his channel, on the search tab, and i'm sure you can find the link.
One of THE most beautiful motorcycles in history. It would be on my ultimate top five list.
Thanks for all these new video's Jay, they really help keep me going
I am a member of the Vincent family and a distant relation to the Mr. Vincent. Sadly these bikes have gotten so valuable that I do not know of anyone in the family who even has any parts in their possession. It is nice to see the family name on something and hear other people say nice things about it. Thanks jay for protecting the family legacies of so many builders & engineers.
Thanks Jay this motorcycle is absolutely beautiful.
His comment about the bike having a Soul hits the mark! If my lotto ticket comes through, it's off to France to order one.
I love your collection. You are made to preserve history. Hope they make a new category noble prize for “preserving automobile history” and you will be the nominate and the winner for it. Thank you SIR.
Remember Patrick well, and a sad thing it was to hear of his passing. Working on a lightweight Norvin for someone here in London,which is a lot more pared down ....
What I love about Jay is even when he is riding such an epic bike and having a great time, he is so passionate about spreading knowledge about these legendary vehicles even while riding them which is crazy hard to do haha
Looks super light weight. True, the older we get the bruises happen way to easy. Thanks Jay. 😎👍🇨🇦
Love when Jay showcases motorcycles.
"Nothing has a sole like a Vincent 52" - lyrics by Richard Thompson "1952 Vincent Black Lightning". Great song - which I saw Richard perform live - one I needed to tick off my bucket list. Aussie Phil Irving ( along with Phil Vincent ) penned the engine back in the day and there is a modern interpretation ( race bikes ) made by the Horner Bros called an "Irving Vincent" - many models, culminating in the 1600cc 4 valve fire breathing monster - pieces of rolling art.
Happy March! Again, pandemic or not, these solo videos are excellent. Nice to see motorcycles time and again.
What a work of art.
I can't get enough of this video
That was your best motorcycle jacket I've seen so far.
They are a beautiful bike. I think they were the greatest looking bikes of all time. I've never seen the updated version but had a Vincent in my family when I was a kid. I cut my teeth on a 46 Knuckle and owned a square four 1956 the last year. I really liked this video and thanks for showing us a true bike of Royalty.
Thank you for posting this video beautiful motorcycle .
My 1971 300 pound Kawasaki three cylinder took me quickly to 120mph which, I am not embarrassed to say, scared my quite righteously. I cannot imagine riding the light Vincent faster. Go Jay!
first Egli Vincent I ever saw was on the Ferry from Liverpool to Douglas IOM going across for the TT races in 1976, beautiful bikes.
I love this bike as well Jay, thank you sir. Remember, age is just a number .
As always, thank you Mr. Leno for another 15 minutes of genuine entertainment. I just wanted to say I love the new (?) black helmet and that it looks much better on you than the last one and matches your coat and most of your old bikes perfectly.
Someone send Jay a new motorcycle jacket. Need to keep this guy going as long as possible. Great stuff.
Every time I have seen a car/motorcycle that I hadn’t seen before it’s always been Jay Leno behind the wheel
I don’t know what it is. I love Jay Leno’s Garage, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed probably hundreds of JLG videos featuring vehicles from two to four wheels - many of which I’m not going to nor aspire to own. And I enjoyed this one, too.
So I don’t know what it is but I just don’t care for this Vincent. I don’t know why.
But please Jay don’t stop doing these! The only channel I’m subscribed to that missing a post isn’t options
Had the pleasure of meeting Patrick at the Isle of man Manx GP 100th anniversary, unbelievable, more Vincents on the island that week than harleys!
Wow , that is a work of art. Just gorgeous.
I love Jay Leno! Miss him on the tonight show!
Mr. Leno- Thanks for this great review of a great bike! I got my "cafe racer" 2006 Triumph Thruxton with my combat pay as soon as I could after getting back from lovely Afghanistan; I had gotten ahold of a bike magazine which featured this machine and I longed for it while there. It's not as powerful or light as your Vincent, but the fun is probably a lot the same. Bob
What I like about this channel is that Jay makes things interesting that I wouldn’t normally be into. Like I’m not a motorcycle guy at all but I still enjoy these videos because I know Jay is going to provide a lot of history and trivia.
Mondays are so much better with Jay!
Thank you.
All the props. So good. Thank you Jay for sharing all this. Super cool - and means the world.
Rock on mate !
It would so amazing to ride even once a great bike like that...I enjoy my own bike...bikes like that just something about them.
Beautiful motorcycle.
Definitely an underappreciated custodian of automotive history. Always nice to see all of your choice examples not just collecting dust, not to mention the history lesson. Thank you for the passion you have for such a functional preservation.
I agree! So many 'collectors' are ultimately collectors of dust, as it winds up coating their bikes, cars, and guitars as they languish unused, voices silenced by their captors. Not so with Jay, thank G-d. He obviously loves using his machines for their intended purpose, as he gives us the gift of seeing them in action. Awesome.
Love, love, love watching Jay! He’s just a guy. A very grounded guy. Celebrity. Wealthy. Famous. But totally unaffected by any of it. I love it when Jay refers to himself as perhaps the president of the more money than brains club! Self depreciation is Jay’s charm. I’m not the only one that loves him, either.
Yeah, he's authentic Cool without the EGO Trip. Very likable and yes, grounded.
In 1970, I lived in Summerville, SC. Across the street was a guy with 2 bikes. One was a Norton 500 that had been a racer in England. The other was a Vincent Black Lightning. There were only about 300 of the Black Lightnings made. Every Sunday from March through the end of September, he would put both bikes in the driveway (when it wasn't a rainy day) and steam clean both, whether he'd driven either of them or not during the week. Neither of them had a starter and had to be pushed to start them up. I've never seen a Black Lightning since nor before.
Both are beautiful in their own specific way. I had the luck to ride a clean Vincent a few years back in France, everything Jay says about that bike is true. An unique experience.
Just today I saw a Ducati 1098 parked and reflected that I’ve always thought they are THE best looking bike ever made. I need to qualify that now as the best faired bike. This is the best looking naked by far. Thanks jay.
Its a lot fun and I am totally delighted to see this old motorcycle still in action. There is really an awesome feel thats hard to explain after watching this. U r great Jay.
Jay!!! You're making me want a bike again! Love your affection for these amazing machines.
Thanks for that sharing, that was a dream....., years ago..!! What's amazing is the size of the late bikes..!! For I like my 48...
Hey Jay, thanks for keeping the pandemic editions going!!! I love all the fun facts you stuff into these videos!!!! 👍😷
Beautiful bike! Love those Vincents.
I can relate Jay, I'm 74 and enjoy riding my Royal Enfield Interceptor, it's the absolute closest modern bike to a Brit twin of the sixties. When I was 18 I had a Triumph Bonneville TT special set up for street use. We used to drool over Vincents and Nortons.
My first bike was a 1979 Triumph Bonneville 750 purchased from Redline Motorcycles in Santa Barbara. John had a Vincent Black Shadow in his front window. God what a beautiful motorcycle. My Triumph was setup as a cafe racer with Norton Dunstall mufflers. Drop handlebars and a dust bin fairing completed the picture. It was agile but fellow riders worried at how the rear end would hop around. Always went where I pointed it and at a fast pace.
I’m more worried about your end than you, Jay. You have to outlive me so I can watch this vlog for the rest of my life.
"modern carburetors.". 😊 I love Jay Leno.
I must say that Mr Leno has used his good fortune and wealth exactly how I would. Hopefully there will be a Leno museum in the future.
One of the most beautiful bikes ever!