Tag Archives: Auction

UK motorcycle museum collection for auction

Here’s your chance to own some amazing motorcycle memorabilia including helmets owned by famous racers such as Mike Hailwood, Joe Dunlop and Marco Simoncelli.

The contents of the Phil Morris Road Racing Museum, one of the world’s largest collections of motorcycle racing memorabilia and motorcycle spares is to be offered by Bonhams in an online auction from Monday April 18 to May 3.

Phil was a schoolboy trials racer who graduated to four-wheels competing in the RAC Rally.

He is known in British racing circles as a sponsor and team owner and started collecting motorcycle memorabilia in the 1970s.

In 2001 added machines to the mix when he bought back his first Ariel.

Phil set up a dedicated space for the collection in 2007 when it had outgrown his home and his then wife’s patience. Forty to sixty people would visit every Thursday until the doors closed with the first lockdown last year.

His collection is one of the world’s largest arrays of rare sets of spares, matching helmets and leathers for the GP bikes, Moto 2 and Moto 3 motorcycles, raced, worn and won by some of the most famous names on two wheels, such as Phil Read, Joey Dunlop, Mike Hailwood and Kenny Roberts.

More than 330 lots are offered in the online sale, running from Phil’s Museum in Oswestry, dubbed ‘The Church’ by Isle of Man TT rider Rob Barber.

2017 Touratech Travel, Challenge and Expo at Bright in Victoria on April 1 and 2

The auction follows the successful sale of racing motorcycles in Phil’s collection in the 2021 Autumn Stafford Sale.

Highlights of the sale include:

Click here for the catalogue.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Bevy of bikes in 40th Anniversary Auction

A total of 35 motorcycles, including a number of rare and collectible US models as well as some great British and Japanese classics, are lining up for the Australian Shannons 40th Anniversary Timed Online Auction from 23-29 November.

It’s probably not a great time to buy, but certainly to sell.

Motorcycles have been fetching record prices at auction since the pandemic struck and people have not been able to spend their savings on overseas holidays.

However, if you are interested in buying, we suggest you first check out our tips for buying at auction.

The oldest motorcycle in the Shannons auction is a 1000cc 1918 Harley-Davidson Model F1000.

1918 Harley-Davidson Model F1000

Representing the top of Harley-Davidson’s line-up at the time and fitted with the most powerful engine then in the company’s range, the Model F is an iconic bike well recognised by all motorcycle enthusiasts. 

Painted in period ‘Olive Drab’ and fitted with a genuine Harley Davidson-branded tan leather seat, Acetylene lighting and a Claxton horn, the bike has been well looked after and is in good general running condition, making it an excellent candidate for events such as the Cannonball Endurance Rally motorcycle run at its expected selling price of $54,000-$60,000.

Of similar vintage, but from Britain, are a two other notable vintage motorcycles offered at ‘no reserve’ – a collectible, ready-to-restore’ 1924 AJS V-Twin Deluxe 800cc ($20,000-$25,000) and a nicely-presented (older restoration) 1926 Douglas EW 350,complete with rear wickerwork carry basket ($8,000-$12,000).

The four other Harley-Davidsons on offer include a fully-restored 1942 WLA with Dustings sidecar. Presented in running condition with full WWII livery, this is one of the best examples to come to market in recent years and is expected to sell for $35,000-$45,000.

For avid Harley collectors, there is a rare, totally unrestored 1934 VFD 1200cc Solo – one of just five produced – that was found under a house in the Melbourne suburb of Glen Waverley where it sat undisturbed and undiscovered for more than 50 years. This rare VFD is a sought-after motorcycle jewel and although not currently running, it is expected to bring $60,000-$70,000.

Harley Davidson knew all about overhead valve motorcycles even before 1915, when the company designed its first eight-valve racers. This advanced feature in 1936 was incorporated in the new EL model, also known as the ‘Knucklehead’.

1941 Harley-Davidson EL ‘Knucklehead’

The new technology, along with a reliable, proper recirculating oil system,

was immediately embraced by the public, with a nicely-restored 1941 EL Knucklehead 1000cc solo – one of less than 2,500 made in 1941 – presented in running condition expected to sell for $75,000-$85,000.

The most modern Harley in the auction is a one-off 2014 XL1200cc Sportster Custom motorcycle that has covered just 2,515km since its completion six years ago in the one ownership of a renowned car and motorcycle collector and is expected to sell for $15,000-$25,000.

Among other notable British motorcycles in the auction are three interesting Velocettes, headed by a replica circa-1939 KTT Mark VIII 350cc race bike (‘no reserve’ $20,000-$25,000). Other Velocettes in the auction are a circa-1937 MAC 350cc Race Bike (‘no reserve’ $8,000 – $10,000) and a 1958 Metisse 500cc with an ex-race motor (‘no reserve’, $12,000 – $16,000).

Three great Nortons from 1949-1975, a mighty Triumph Bonneville, a 1970 Royal Enfield and a spectacular Triumph Hurricane, are other British bike stars on offer.

three-cylinder 1972 Triumph Hurricane X-75

Particularly notable is the 1949 Norton Dominator 600cc presented in the style of the famous London Café Racers of the 1950s, which is offered in running condition. Offered with ‘no reserve’, it is expected to sell in the $12,000-$15,000 range.

Also very desirable for Triumph collectors is an immaculate and rare 1977 Bonneville 750cc Silver Jubilee motorcycle– a model that marked the company’s 25th anniversary in 1977.

1977 Bonneville 750cc Silver Jubilee

One of just 1000 made initially, all featuring Girling’s then-new ‘Upside-Down Shocks’ with exposed springs, the bike is presented in excellent condition, ready to enjoy on club runs and events, or simply to display, with its expected sale price of $15,000-$18,000.

Undoubtedly one of the most trendsetting motorcycles of its day, and a ‘hero’ of the auction is a 1972 Triumph Hurricane X-75 Motorcycle – a triple-cylinder model rarely offered for sale.

Bikers for Kids Newcastle Toy Run salvos townsville flood runs
three-cylinder 1972 Triumph Hurricane X-75

It represents a worthy motorcycle hero of the auction, with the radically-styled and trend-setting cruiser being one of just 1172 built and showing just 12,674km on its odometer, expected to sell in the $36,000-$42,000 range.

Rare in this country, the 1970 Royal Enfield Interceptor Series II has been owned by the vendor since it was just a year old. Presented in immaculate condition following a four-year restoration, it is expected to sell with ‘no reserve’ for $10,000-$15,000.

Italian motorcycles are represented in quality if not quantity in the auction, with the stand-out being a stunning 2003, four cylinder Yamaha-powered Bimota YB11 Superleggera that combines Italian suspension with a top-level Yamaha engine to create a unique sports bike.

Recently pulled down and re-assembled over seven weeks and presented in magnificent condition, it is expected to bring $20,000-$25,000.

Its worthy Italian alternative is a black 1992 Ducati 900SS – one of the all-time great classic sports bikes. Offered with jut 34,355km indicated and correct in every detail, it is expected to sell for $10,000-$14,000.

Ten classic Japanese bikes are also in the auction, headed by a custom-made 1979 CBX1000 that is slated to sell for $40,000-$50,000. Other sought-after Hondas include a nicely-presented 1983 VF400F (‘no reserve’, $8,000-$12,000) and a well-kept 2008 CBF1000 (‘no reserve’, $6,000-$9,000).

The top-priced Japanese bikes are expected to be two four-cylinder Kawasakis –  a lovely 1977 Z1000 in factory condition ($20,000-$25,000) and an immaculate 1974 Z1 900cc with a period front fairing ($35,000-$45,000).

Four Yamahas are on offer, with the most radical-looking being a 1978 twin cylinder XS650 Storm ‘Phil Little’ Special Edition with very low kilometres that has the classic, custom look of a Triumph Hurricane for a much lower estimated selling price of $10,000-$14,000.

Finally for scooter enthusiasts there are two iconic 1950s Lambrettas – a 1955 Model F and a 1957 LD125 – both in great condition and expected to sell with ‘no reserve’ for $10,000-$14,000 and $8,000-$12,000 respectively.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Rare Italian bikes highlight of auction

If you are a lover of rare Italian motorcycles and have overseas holiday money burning a hole in your wallet, the Bonhams Autumn Sale next month (9-10 October 2021) will no doubt be a temptation.

It features a collection of more than 40 motorcycles owned by the late acclaimed German film critic Hans Schifferle, including many rare Italian bikes led by my personal favourite, the 1974 Ducati 750 SS.

However, you will need to have a good line of credit or money in the bank as it is estimated to fetch between $A170,000 and $A245,000.

If that doesn’t scare you off, you should still check out our tips to make sure you don’t get caught out buying a dud or spending too much.

Auctions can be a fun experience and you can land yourself a real bargain. However, there are many pitfalls as well.

Click here to read our tips on buying at auction.

Ok, so now you know the advantages and pitfalls of auctions, let’s tempt you with some rare bikes owned by motorcycle connoisseur Hans Schifferle who died in March.

Hans Schifferle with his collection

Has and his wife, Gudrun, and friend, the former Grand Prix racer Helmut Lichtenberg, visited many of Europe’s  “autojumbles” at Imola, Mannheim, Stuttgart and Nuremberg to secure rare parts for his restorations.

Helmut did most of the work having run the classic motorcycle division at Schmid Höhenkirchen where Hans bought many of his bikes.

Hans ensured he rode all his bikes at least 3000km a year to keep them in top mechanical order.

His collection not only includes are Italian gems, but also some British and American models.

My all-time favourite, the 1974 Ducati 750 SS, is the most expensive of the lot.

1974 Ducati 750 SS
1974 Ducati 750 SS

It is the model that powered Paul Smart to victory at the Imola 200 in 1972.

The Ducati 750 SS featured central-axle forks, Brembo front brakes and a cockpit faring.

This 1974 launch year motorcycle was acquired by Schifferle 2002 and has correct numbers and stamps.

1973 MV Agusta 750 GT
1973 MV Agusta 750 GT

Another ultra-rare Italian highlight is the 1973 MV Agusta 750 GT estimated to fetch up to $A95,000.

Only 50 models in white and bronze were sold due to its initial high price tag.

This bike is one of the most sought-after MV roadsters and one of few not modified or converted into a ‘special’.

Other highlights include a 1941 Indian 1,279cc Four (up to $A95,000), a 1955 Vincent 998CC Black Knight (up to $A68,000), a circa 1973 Slater ‘Egli-Vincent’ 998cc (up to $A68,000) and a relatively cheap 1956 Harley Davidson KH (up to $A15,000).

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Rare bikes highlights of Shannons timed online auction

There are some very collectible Australian, British, European and Japanese motorcycles in Shannons timed online Winter auction from 8-15 June, 2021.

Topping the 16 motorcycles and scooters is a desirable Pre-War British V-Twin 1938 Matchless Model X, fresh from long-term storage ($30,000 – $40,000).

Formerly in the Keith Williams collection of important motorcycles, the Matchless is one of an estimated 65 surviving Model X bikes dating from 1937-1939 and one of only 21 built in 1938. 

Although it will require some re-commissioning, the bike appears to be complete and in very original overall condition, with Shannons expecting it to sell with ‘no reserve’ in the $30,000 – $40,000 range.

Pre-War British V-Twin 1938 Matchless Model X
Pre-War British V-Twin 1938 Matchless Model X

Also in the auction is a very rare Australian-built single cylinder circa-1913 Monarch ‘Jap’ 500cc motorcycle.

Offered in running condition, this very early Monarch is possibly the only one still in existence. Its extensive restoration was completed mid-1994 and the bike has since been seen since at Veteran events around Australia.

Australian-built single cylinder circa-1913 Monarch 'Jap' 500cc
Australian-built single cylinder circa-1913 Monarch ‘Jap’ 500cc

Because of its rarity and condition, it is expected to sell in the $20,000 – $25,000 range.

Other great motorcycles in the auction include four Post-War British Classics – an older restored classic Triumph 5T 500cc Speed Twin (‘no reserve’ $8,000-$12,000); two rare and fully-restored 1951 Triumphs – a 500cc Tiger 100 500cc ($18,000-$22,000) and a Thunderbird 650cc ($20,000-$25,000) and a ‘no reserve’ 1972 Norton Commando 750cc restored by marque specialists ($22,000-$28,000). 

There are also two sidecar outfits on offer – a Ukraine-built and Australian-delivered 1988 DNEPR (Rocket) MT11S in good, mechanically-rebuilt condition (‘no reserve’ $6,000-$8,000) and a beautifully-restored and presented 1959 BMW R50 motorcycle equipped with a Steib sidecar ($35,000-$45,000).

Ukraine-built 1988 DNEPR (Rocket) MT11S
Ukraine-built 1988 DNEPR (Rocket) MT11S

Japanese motorcycle collectors have a choice of four Honda models ranging from a 2007 40th Anniversary 50cc Z50 (no reserve’ $10,000-$12,000) and a totally-restored 1975 Honda GL1000 with a mild café makeover (better known as the first Gold Wing) – ‘no reserve’, $8,000-$12,000.

Two iconic Kawasakis have already tweaked bidders’ interest – a fully-restored 1973 H2A 750cfc triple that has been in vendor’s hands for the past 22 years ($28,000 – $34,000) and a hugely collectible 1976 Z900 A4 superbike, freshly restored to show standard ($25,000-$30,000).

1976 Kawasaki Z900 A4
1976 Kawasaki Z900 A4

Scooter enthusiasts have an old/new choice between a Classic 1961 Lambretta Li 125 with period accessories that has been freshly restored and upgraded to 150cc specification and a retro-styled 2009 Vespa Piaggio 250 GTV presented in ‘as new’ condition with just 800km on its odometer – both with ‘no reserve’ and each expected to sell for $6,000-$8,000.

To view all auction lots, visit www.shannons.com.au, call 13 46 46, Option 6 (Auctions), or email [email protected]

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Aussies feast on Brit bike auction

Aussies have a deep love affair with British bikes that stretches back almost 100 years and now they can express that love by buying a classic Brit bike in the Shannons Autumn Online Auction.

At one stage, Australia’s motorcycle industry boasted more than 30 brand names, most of which were powered by British engines.

Aussies also favoured British bikes right through until the Japanese superbikes of the 1970s.

Now Brit bike fans can again express their love of UK mechanical hostly at the annual Shannons auction highlighted by Manx Nortons and an 1949 AJS 350CC 7R from 48 years of same family ownership.

The auction kicks off on 13 April 2021 and closes on April 20. 

Three bikes come from the estate of the late Fred O’Farrell, who competed regularly at circuits like Amaroo Park and Oran Park.

The undisputed leader of the pack is a fabulous 1954 Norton Manx 500cc with a short-stroke Ray Petty conversion and a British and Bathurst race history.

Manx Norton

Built around a J11 M2 all-welded frame, this long-stroke Norton was originally sold in Oxford, UK, but underwent a short stroke conversion by Ray Petty (whose stamp appears on the crankcases and front brake ring) before coming to Australia.

Since brought up to 1961 spec, the Norton spent many years in Mt Gambier from where it was raced to fourth place at Bathurst by Rob Assink. After changing hands locally several times, the Manx landed in Warrnambool (Victoria) where it was given a general tidy up.

The Norton’s 498cc single had never been apart until its conrod was sent to Summerfields for a new big-end bearing. Used sparingly since, it was run up and down the local road by the vendor around six years ago and comes with paperwork and notes on its history. Genuine Manx Nortons rarely come on the market and this fine example is expected to sell in the $50,000 – $60,000 range.

The Manx is one of four Classic Nortons in the auction. Others are a fully-restored 1968 Norton Commando 750cc Twin Fastback in immaculate condition (the 307th Commando built – $20,000 – $24,000), a 1954 Norton ES2 500cc restored to a high standard with the make’s famous chrome and black livery (‘no reserve’ $10,000-$12,000) and a 1950 Norton ES2-based special (‘no reserve’ $7,000-$10,000).

Another all-time classic British motorcycle is a 1949 AJS 350CC 7R with an Australian racing history that has been in the same family ownership for 48 years ($45,000 – $55,000).

An alternative for AJS enthusiasts from the family of the Late Fred O’Farrell is a classic 1948 AJS 7R race bike now running a Velocette single cylinder 350cc engine (‘no reserve’ $16,000-$22,000).

Rex Acme

Great British Pre-War motorbikes in the auction include a very rare c1933 Rudge 500 TT Replica motorcycle ($14,000 – $18,000) and an ultra-rare and beautifully-restored 1926 Rex Acme Sports motorcycle fitted with a 350cc Blackburn ohv engine (‘no reserve’ $18,000-$22,000).

Indian outfit

American bikes in the auction include a 1923 Indian Standard Power Plus Outfit with its original sidecar offered with ‘no reserve’ in major project condition for $10,000-$15,000, along with two much more recent Harley-Davidson FLH 1200 models – an original, but cosmetically refreshed 1967 Electra-Glide ($30,000-$36,000) and an unrestored 1978 ’75th Anniversary Edition’ AMF model  – one of just 2,120 made ($20,000 – $25,000).

Japanese motorcycles include three Hondas and a Suzuki GT750 triple, with the standouts being a stunning, orange 1974 Honda CB750/4 K4 and a ‘no reserve’ 1981 Honda CBX 1000 showing only 22,406km in the hands of three owners ­ – both Hondas in immaculate condition and expected to sell for $22,000-$28,000, with the CBX 1000 offered with ‘no reserve’.

Also in the auction for scooter fans there are three Classic Vespas – a restored 1962 Piaggio 150cc (‘no reserve’, $5,000-$8,000); a  c1974 Vespa Piaggio 150cc Sprint model (‘no reserve’ $6,000-$8,000) and a modern, but retro-styled 2009 Vespa GTV 250ie (‘no reserve’, $5,000-$7,000).

To view all auction lots, visit www.shannons.com.au

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Fastest motorcycles up for auction

The first Bonhams Motorcycles auction for 2021 will include two important collections, one of Italian sports bikes and the other a selection of classic Vincent-HRDs, the world’s fastest motorcycles of their time.

Their Summer Stafford Sale will be held on 3 and 4 July in line with the rescheduled International Classic MotorCycle Show.

And it’s a collection of motorcycles that will have you drooling and concocting how you can claim the purchases on tax or explain it away to your significant other as an investment.

In fact, classic motorcycles are increasing in value, so the latter is not a lie!

However, before you dig into your Bitcoin, click here to checkout our top 10 tips for buying at auction.

RON CODY COLLECTION

A selection of motorcycles offered from the Ron Cody Collection 

Well-known in MV Agusta club circles, the late Ron Cody, a former sports car racer and engineer, turned to his passion for building up and restoring his collection of Italian machines as a retirement hobby. This collection offers 48 motorcycles, with many examples of MV Agustas as well as other Italian marques. Highlights include:

1964 MV AGUSTA 150CC RAPIDO SPORT, £3,000 – 4,000

1966 MV Agusta 150cc Rapido Sport
1966 MV Agusta 150cc Rapido Sport

Like their larger siblings, the small MVs were very expensive, costing as much as a British 500, which explains why so few of these exquisitely engineered little motorcycles were sold in the UK. This 150 Rapido Sport displays a total of only 125 kilometres on the odometer since restoration.

1953 MV AGUSTA 125CC TEL ‘SPORT COMPETIZIONE’, £4,000 – 6,000

c.1949 MV Agusta 125cc TEL Sport
c.1949 MV Agusta 125cc TEL Sport

With superb engineering compared with any British contemporary, the MV Agusta’s 125cc TEL ‘stroker’ of 1949 was powered by a neat unitary construction single-cylinder engine which, somewhat unusually for a post-war design, featured detachable transfer ports. The 125 MV offered here is presented in Competizione specification, intended for Italy’s popular long-distance races such as the Milan-Taranto and the Moto Giro d’Italia.

C.1958 GILERA 175CC ROSSA EXTRA RACING MOTORCYCLE, £2,400 – 2,800

c.1958 Gilera 175cc Rossa Extra Racing Motorcycle
c.1958 Gilera 175cc Rossa Extra Racing Motorcycle

Throughout the early 1950s, Gilera’s racers made the headlines, taking six individual World Championships and five manufacturers’ titles. Its road bikes paid the bills, with the 175cc being a top seller, although its high price abroad made it a relatively rare sight outside Italy. Introduced for 1957, the Rossa Extra was essentially a deluxe version of the 175 Sport. Apparently cosmetically restored and very nicely presented, this Rossa Extra racer features a Scitsu tachometer, Dell’Orto UBF24BS carburettor, Ceriani forks, and ventilated brakes.

1958 PARILLA 175CC SPORT, £4,000 – 7.000

1958 Parilla 175cc Sport
1958 Parilla 175cc Sport

One of the first Italian motorcycle manufacturers that went into production after the Second World War, Parilla introduced the ‘high cam’ (camme rialzata) model, for which it is best remembered, at the 1952 Milan Show. This 175cc single-cylinder motorcycle featured a chain-driven camshaft mounted on the side of the cylinder head, the valves being operated via short pushrods. Stunningly beautiful, Parilla’s production racer was also exceedingly quick.

AN IMPORTANT VINCENT-HRD COLLECTION

Bonhams
Classic Vincent-HRDs

A stalwart of the golden age of British motorcycles, the Vincent marque is synonymous with design innovation, engineering excellence but mostly record-breaking high performance.

1951 Vincent HRD 998cc Black Shadow Series C
1951 Vincent HRD 998cc Black Shadow Series C

Leading this important collection of Vincent-HRDs is a matching numbers 1951 Series C998cc Black Shadow, an example of the marque’s most famous model and the first genuine two-miles-per-minute production bike, with a reputed top speed of around 125 mph.

Off the road for 40 years, the motorcycle was completely restored by the vendor over a four-year period, with the result being judged ‘Best in Show’ at Stafford in 2010. Having since been displayed at the Lakeland Motor Museum, the Shadow is offered with a continuation RF60 buff logbook dating from April 1963 and the original registration number ‘LOV 579’. Estimate: £60,000 – 75,000.

Lining up with the Shadow is a loving recreation of its racing sibling, a Vincent HRD 998cc Black Lightning Evocation Special. Only 31 Black Lightnings were produced between 1948 and 1952 and their value reflects their rarity – Bonhams set a world record for the model in 2018 when the ex-Tony McAlpine, Jack Ehret, Australian Land Speed Record Breaking example sold for $929,000 (£656,630).

Vincent HRD 998cc Black Lightning Evocation Special
Vincent HRD 998cc Black Lightning Evocation Special

The vendor decided to create this Evocation for parades and track days. Buying a quantity of engine parts and main frame components in 2003, he embarked on a three-year project, restoring the rolling chassis himself, while entrusting the engine rebuild, to Black Shadow-plus specification, to well-known Vincent exponent Mick Ruocco.

Completed in 2006, it was commissioned by John Renwick, who made adjustments to the carburetion and started and ran the bike on his dynamometer. The Lightning was voted Best Classic Racer at the TT 2006 Lap of Honour and judged Best Classic Racer at the 2006 Stafford Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show. It has since completed many closed-road parades at the TT and Classic TT and was used the machine regularly until 2014, when it was put on display at the Lakeland Motor Museum. Estimate: £30,000 – 40,000.

1937 Vincent HRD 498cc Comet Series A, estimate: £35,000 – 45,000

1937 Vincent HRD 498cc Comet Series A
1937 Vincent HRD 498cc Comet Series A

The rare Series A was the first model to use the Philip Vincent-designed engine, with high-camshaft layout. This example also underwent a complete restoration, from rebuilding the engine and gearbox to refurbishing the petrol tank. The restored Comet was awarded Best Post-Vintage machine at the 2009 Stafford Spring Classic Motorcycle Show. Covering a mere 100 ‘shake down’ miles since restoration the bike has, for the past decade, been displayed at the Lakeland Motor Museum.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

FOR SALE: 1974 Ducati 750 Super Sport

$85k With 2 Days Left On Auction

Here’s your chance to own a wicked-expensive, fully restored 1974 Ducati 750 Super Sport. This bike in particular is one of 401 total units boasting a green frame and was first owned by George Vincensi of the Berliner Motor Corporation.

This 750 Super Sport has been fully restored in the early 2000s and the 748cc round-case L-twin engine has been fully rebuilt by Guy Martin; ever heard of him? Yes, the legendary Isle of Man TT racer Guy Martin was the one that tried his hand at rebuilding this engine and restoring it to its former glory. Imagine owning a Ferrari that had its engine rebuilt by Michael Schumacher. The motorcycle also features new paint and chrome.

This motorcycle is packed with features for a bike of its time. This bike has clip-on handlebars, triple-disc brakes, Conti mufflers, smiths gauges, a steering damper, Dyna electronic ignition, and Ducati’s signature desmodromic bevel-driven camshafts.

On the visual side, this restored 750 Super Sport has seen a complete re-work of the paint to deliver us this beautiful two-tone green/blue and silver by Borella Enterprises located in Connecticut.

This bike comes included with all service and restoration records along with a carefully documented photo-journey of the engine rebuild process. The original owner’s manual, warranty card, took kit and stock hardware all come with the sale of this motorcycle.

At the time of writing, this legendary piece of Ducati history is on aucation over at bringatrailer.com with the bids currently sitting at an astounding $85,000 with two days left in auction. 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

FOR SALE: 1946 Norton Model 18

A Piece of History In the Making

Norton has made a big splash into the motorcycle world with their resurgence and ‘rise from the dead’ after the 120+ year-old company went out of business for what seemed like decades. The company relaunched twelve years ago and has already run into numerous issues during the production of their upcoming models. If you looked at the company’s woes now, it would be hard to gauge where they used to be; once a highly successful motorcycle brand with a decorated trophy-case full of race victories across the decades.

This 1946 Norton Model 18 is a perfect example of what you would get from a Norton motorcycle over sixty years ago. This 1946 Model 18 in specific is up for auction on bringatrailer.com with a clean Washington state title under the name of the current seller.

On the technical side, his motorcycle features an air-cooled 490cc single-cylinder engine married to a four-speed transmission for propulsion and drum brakes for when you inevitably need to come to a stop. Although the front end of the motorcycle has a girder fork for suspension, the rear end of this motorcycle leaves you with a simple sprung seat to absorb the roads harsh surfaces.

KTM 450 SX-F Factory

This Model 18 is finished in silver and chrome parts mounted to a black frame. Although this motorcycle looks straight out of 1946, the bike has undergone some changes to keep it safe and reliable with ie inclusion of newly painted fenders, updated hand controls, a transmission overhaul, a new exhaust system, and a few more updates. 

The bike displays 13,000 miles, but the total mileage is unknown. If you’re eager to get your hands on a piece of Norton Motorcycle history before they begin to unravel their own future with the next lineup of bikes coming out, this Model 18 can be yours if you act fast and bid on it at bringatrailer.com. The bids currently sit at $3500 at the time of writing this article, and the auction currently has 7 days remaining until it’s finished.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

FOR SALE: 1965 BMW R60/2

Aged Like Fine Wine

Vintage BMW motorcycles are elegant and beautiful pieces of artwork, no matter what type of riding you’re into. If you’ve been examining vintage BMW’s and haven’t had the perfect chance to get one; your time is now.

This 1965 BMW R660/2 is a refinished bike with paint so perfect it might trick you into thinking it just rolled off the dealership lot. Ozzie’s BMW dealership in Chico California did the restoration job in 2012, and the bike has seen limited miles since then (50). It comes with the same bill of sale and title that was originally gathered when the bike was purchased from Ozzie’s BMW dated 2013. The motorcycle currently sits at 25,000 miles displayed by the odometer, but the exact mileage will remain a mystery. 

This R660/2 comes with the original 596cc opposed-twin engine (producing 30 vintage horses when new) with a four-speed gearbox. The paint has been redone in a gloss black with white pinstriping, and the two-up seat has been reupholstered in matching black leather with white accenting around the edges.

Don’t worry about rolling around on 50+-year-old tires, new period-correct Metzeler tires have been mounted to the wire-spoke 18-inch rims to keep the authenticity of this classic motorcycle as true-to-form as possible.

This piece of modern history currently sits at a comfortable price of $7500, despite the auction on bringatrailer.com only having 2 days remaining to bid. If you’re looking for a low-priced classic BMW for date nights with the wifey, this very well may be the bike for you.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

‘Aussie’ Barry Sheene mementos at auction

There should be a lot of interest among Aussie race fans for an auction of memorabilia belonging to beloved Brit and adopted Aussie Barry Sheene.

The two-time Motorcycle Grand Prix World Champion and all-round larrikin was well loved in his adopted country where he died in 2003 from throat cancer.

Now some famous Bazza memorabilia is going up for auction at the Bonhams Winter Sale on 11-12 December 2020. The auction also includes many rare and collectable motorcycles.

The many Bazza items on offer would make a great Christmas present for the Aussie motorcycle fan who has everything.

They include:

  • 1976 John Player Grand Prix Senior 500cc race winner’s trophy, estimate £600-800 (about $A630-910). It consists of a sword mounted to a wooden backing. 
  • A Castrol trophy for first in the MCN Super Bike round at Mallory Park 12 September 1976. (£400–600).
  • Plaque for first in the 500cc ‘Gran Prix de Venezuela’ at San Carlos 19 March 1978, 19cm x 14cm; together with three other awards including a Martini ‘rider of the year 1977’ belt buckle inscribed to the rear specifically manufactured for Barry Sheene (£300-500).
  • A stainless steel Gabriel watch awarded at the ‘France de Chimay’ race in 1976 (£300 – £500).
  • Two sets of Suzuki team overalls and bib and brace (£250-350).
  • ‘The Sheene Collection’ leather jacket (£400 – 600/$A$ 720-1100) and a medium fabric jacket with badges and logos (£400-600).
  • A leather holdall featuring his famous number ‘7’, ‘Sheene’ to the end and ‘Suzuki’ logo to the ends and sides (£250 – 350).

Bazza history

Barry Sheene
Barry Sheene

Barry was born in London in 1950, and was back-to-back world 500cc champion for Suzuki in 1976-77 after a spectacular crash at the Daytona 200 in 1975.

He almost died in the crash that would have ended many other riders’ careers, yet he came back stronger than ever and more determined to win.

Barry was also instrumental in many safety developments with track design and racer clothing. 

Between 1968 and 1984, Sheene made over 100 Grand Prix starts, securing 52 podium finishes and 23 victories and remains the last Briton to win a motorcycle Grand Prix race. 

Read this industry vet’s tribute to the late, great Barry Sheene.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com