Introduction
The gavel falls, a hush descends upon the room, and then a roar of applause as the final bid is accepted. Motorcycle auctions are more than just sales; they are theatrical displays of passion, history, and the enduring allure of two-wheeled masterpieces. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, these events offer a chance to own a piece of motorcycling history, a tangible symbol of speed, design, and the open road. Some machines transcend mere functionality, becoming objects of desire that command extraordinary prices. This article explores ten of the most breathtaking and coveted motorcycles that have graced the auction block, showcasing their unique beauty, historical significance, and the fortunes they ultimately fetched.
Criteria for Selection
Choosing just ten motorcycles from the vast world of auction-worthy machines is no easy task. The selection process considers several key factors, primarily aesthetic appeal – the motorcycles must be visually stunning, showcasing exceptional design and craftsmanship. Historical significance also plays a crucial role, encompassing factors like rarity, racing pedigree, celebrity ownership, or any other detail that elevates the motorcycle beyond the ordinary. Finally, the actual auction price achieved serves as a powerful indicator of desirability, reflecting the collective valuation of passionate collectors. These ten motorcycles represent a blend of beauty, history, and auction success, each telling a unique story of engineering and artistry.
Vincent Black Shadow
The Vincent Black Shadow stands as a testament to British engineering prowess and a symbol of post-war motorcycle design. Produced in the late nineteen forties and early nineteen fifties, the Black Shadow was renowned for its groundbreaking performance and distinctive aesthetics. Its sleek, blacked-out appearance, coupled with its powerful one thousand cc V-twin engine, made it the fastest production motorcycle of its time. Owning a Vincent Black Shadow was a statement, a declaration of rebellion against the ordinary. When one crosses the auction block, collectors take note. Original, well-preserved examples have consistently commanded top dollar, reflecting the Black Shadow’s enduring appeal as a symbol of speed, style, and British motorcycle heritage. The sale of a pristine example at a prestigious auction house often makes headlines, highlighting the unwavering demand for this iconic machine.
Brough Superior SS One Hundred
Synonymous with luxury and performance, the Brough Superior SS One Hundred was often described as the “Rolls-Royce of motorcycles.” Built in limited numbers between the nineteen twenties and nineteen forties, each Brough Superior was meticulously handcrafted to the customer’s specifications. The SS One Hundred was guaranteed to achieve one hundred miles per hour, a remarkable feat for its time. The attention to detail was unparalleled, from the gleaming chrome accents to the plush leather saddle. Owning a Brough Superior was a sign of affluence and discerning taste. At auction, Brough Superiors consistently attract intense bidding wars, with well-documented examples fetching truly extraordinary sums. The rarity, the craftsmanship, and the historical cachet of the Brough Superior SS One Hundred make it a perennial favorite among serious motorcycle collectors.
Harley-Davidson Strap Tank
The Harley-Davidson Strap Tank represents the very genesis of the American motorcycle industry. Produced in nineteen oh seven, it is one of the earliest examples of Harley-Davidson’s legendary engineering. Its name comes from the unique strap-like fasteners used to secure the fuel and oil tanks to the frame. These machines were simple, rugged, and built to withstand the rigors of early twentieth-century roads. Surviving examples are incredibly rare, making them highly prized by collectors. When a Strap Tank comes up for auction, it’s not just a motorcycle being sold; it’s a piece of American history. The prices achieved reflect its significance as a foundational piece of the Harley-Davidson legacy and a tangible link to the pioneering days of motorcycling.
Cyclone Board Track Racer
The Cyclone Board Track Racer was a marvel of engineering that epitomized the daredevil spirit of early twentieth-century motorcycle racing. With its high-revving, overhead-cam engine, it was capable of incredible speeds on the dangerous wooden board tracks that crisscrossed the nation. These motorcycles were purpose-built for competition, stripped down to the bare essentials. The Cyclone was a fierce competitor on the board track, and its legacy lives on as a symbol of speed and bravery. Few examples survive today, adding to their allure. Auctions of Cyclone Board Track Racers are highly anticipated events, drawing enthusiasts who appreciate the machine’s technical innovation and its role in shaping the history of American motorcycle racing.
Triumph Bonneville Salt Racer
The Triumph Bonneville Salt Racer holds a special place in the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts due to its association with the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. The Bonneville, renowned for its high-speed runs and record attempts, became synonymous with performance and innovation. Salt racers, often highly modified versions of production motorcycles, were built to push the limits of speed. These machines represent the pursuit of excellence and the thrill of breaking records. When an authentic Bonneville Salt Racer appears at auction, it’s a chance to own a piece of that history. These motorcycles tell a story of speed, engineering, and the indomitable human spirit.
Norton Manx
The Norton Manx is a legendary racing motorcycle that dominated the Isle of Man TT races for many years. Its distinctive design, coupled with its exceptional handling, made it a formidable competitor on the challenging mountain course. The Manx was a symbol of British racing excellence, a testament to engineering and determination. Winning a TT race on a Norton Manx was a career-defining achievement for any rider. These motorcycles boast a rich racing history, making them highly collectible. The sale of a Manx with a documented racing history at auction is a significant event, drawing bids from collectors who appreciate the machine’s pedigree and its role in shaping the sport of motorcycle racing.
Ducati ninety hundred SS
The Ducati ninety hundred SS is an Italian sport bike that combines stunning design with exceptional performance. Introduced in the nineteen seventies, the ninety hundred SS quickly gained a reputation for its agile handling and powerful engine. Its iconic silhouette, with its sweeping lines and distinctive fairing, remains instantly recognizable. The Ducati ninety hundred SS represents the epitome of Italian motorcycle design, a blend of form and function. Well-preserved examples are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate the machine’s beauty and its thrilling riding experience. The sale of a pristine ninety hundred SS at auction often sparks fierce competition, with bidders vying for a chance to own a piece of Italian motorcycle history.
Honda CB Seven Fifty
The Honda CB Seven Fifty holds a special place in motorcycling history as one of the most influential motorcycles ever produced. Released in the late nineteen sixties, it revolutionized the industry by offering a combination of performance, reliability, and affordability that was previously unheard of. The CB Seven Fifty was not only fast, but also easy to maintain and comfortable to ride, making it a popular choice for both commuters and enthusiasts. Although not rare, well-preserved, original examples are increasingly collectible. Its sale at auction often serves as a reminder of its impact on motorcycling and its enduring legacy as a symbol of Japanese engineering excellence.
Kawasaki Z One Nine Hundred
The Kawasaki Z One Nine Hundred, often hailed as the first “superbike,” shattered performance expectations and established a new benchmark for speed and power. Introduced in the early nineteen seventies, the Z One Nine Hundred boasted a powerful inline-four engine that delivered blistering acceleration and a thrilling riding experience. Its bold styling and aggressive stance further cemented its status as a symbol of motorcycle rebellion. The Z One Nine Hundred became an instant legend, inspiring a new generation of riders and forever altering the landscape of the motorcycle world. Original, unrestored examples are highly prized by collectors who appreciate the machine’s performance and its groundbreaking design.
Munch Mammoth
The Munch Mammoth is a unique and unforgettable motorcycle known for its powerful automotive engine and unconventional design. The Mammoth was a true brute of a motorcycle, designed to deliver exceptional performance and make a bold statement. Only a limited number were ever produced, making them a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item. The sale of a Munch Mammoth at auction always draws attention, as collectors from around the world compete for the opportunity to own a piece of motorcycle eccentricity. The Munch Mammoth represents the ultimate expression of individuality and engineering ingenuity.
Themes or Trends Observed
Analyzing these ten motorcycles reveals several interesting trends in the world of motorcycle auctions. Firstly, certain brands consistently command higher prices, reflecting their historical significance, reputation for quality, and enduring appeal. Secondly, motorcycles with a documented racing history or celebrity ownership tend to attract the most intense bidding wars. Finally, condition plays a crucial role in determining value, with pristine, unrestored examples often fetching significantly higher prices than restored machines. The auction market reflects a passion for preserving history and a willingness to pay a premium for rarity, provenance, and exceptional condition.
The Future of Motorcycle Auctions
The motorcycle auction market is dynamic and continues to evolve. Prices for classic and collectible motorcycles are generally expected to remain strong, driven by increasing demand from collectors and investors. As vintage motorcycles gain wider recognition as a viable investment, the market is likely to become even more competitive. The rise of online auction platforms is also transforming the landscape, providing greater accessibility and transparency. Whether it’s a Vincent Black Shadow or Honda CB Seven Fifty, motorcycle auctions promise to remain vibrant events, celebrating the beauty, history, and passion of two-wheeled machines.
Conclusion
These ten motorcycles represent the pinnacle of motorcycle design, engineering, and desirability. Each has graced the auction block, fetching fortunes that reflect its unique appeal and historical significance. They are more than just machines; they are artifacts of culture, symbols of innovation, and objects of enduring passion. The allure of classic motorcycles continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike, ensuring that the thrill of the auction will remain a vibrant part of motorcycling for years to come. Share your favorite motorcycle in the comments below! Or, let us know if you have attended a motorcycle auction before!
