Collecting vintage motorcycles can be tricky. Many enthusiasts struggle to identify which classic bikes are truly worth owning. The motorcycle auction record is nearly 50 times lower than that of cars, making bikes an accessible entry point for collectors.
1950 Vincent Black Shadow
The 1950 Vincent Black Shadow stands as a legendary icon in motorcycle history. This British-made machine boasted a powerful 998cc V-twin engine, capable of propelling riders to speeds over 125 mph.
Its sleek, all-black design and impressive performance made it the fastest production motorcycle of its time.
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Vincent produced only 1,700 Black Shadows between 1948 and 1955, making them rare and highly sought-after by collectors today. The bike’s advanced features for its era included hydraulic dampers, adjustable footrests, and a unique frame design that used the engine as a stressed member.
These innovations contributed to its exceptional handling and stability at high speeds.
The Black Shadow’s enduring appeal is reflected in its value on the collector’s market. At recent motorcycle auctions, well-preserved examples have fetched around $100,000 or more.
Its combination of rarity, groundbreaking engineering, and raw speed continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike, cementing its status as a true vintage motorcycle masterpiece.
1936 Brough Superior SS100
The 1936 Brough Superior SS100 stands as a pinnacle of motorcycle engineering from the pre-war era. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this British-made masterpiece earned the nickname “Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles” due to its exceptional quality and performance.
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George Brough, the company’s founder, personally tested each SS100 to ensure it could reach 100 mph – a remarkable feat for its time. The bike’s 998cc JAP V-twin engine, coupled with a Sturmey-Archer gearbox, delivered impressive power and reliability.
Collectors prize the SS100 for its rarity and historical significance. Only about 380 SS100s were produced between 1924 and 1940, making them highly sought-after today. At auctions, these motorcycles can fetch up to $250,000, reflecting their status as blue-chip investments in the vintage motorcycle world.
T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, owned several Brough Superiors and tragically died while riding one in 1935. This association with the famed British officer has only added to the mystique and value of these extraordinary machines.
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A modern version of the Brough Superior is now manufactured in France, continuing the legacy of this iconic brand.
1969 Honda CB750
The 1969 Honda CB750 revolutionized the motorcycle industry. This groundbreaking machine introduced the inline-four engine to mass-produced bikes, earning it the title of the first “superbike.” Honda’s innovative design packed a punch with its 736cc air-cooled engine, delivering smooth power and impressive performance for its time.
Honda’s engineers didn’t stop at the engine. They equipped the CB750 with cutting-edge features like a front disc brake – a first for production motorcycles. This advancement significantly improved stopping power and safety, setting a new standard for future designs.
The CB750’s combination of power, handling, and reliability quickly made it a favorite among riders and collectors alike.
Production numbers for the CB750 were relatively limited, with approximately 3,000 units made each year. This scarcity has contributed to its status as a highly sought-after vintage motorcycle.
Today, well-preserved examples of the 1969 Honda CB750 can fetch around $20,000 at auction, reflecting its enduring appeal and historical significance in the world of motorcycling.
1940 Indian Chief
The 1940 Indian Chief stands as a pinnacle of American motorcycle engineering. This iconic two-wheeler boasts a distinctive design that captures the essence of vintage motorcycling.
Its powerful 1,210cc V-twin engine delivers a robust performance that still impresses riders today. The Chief’s flowing lines, deeply valanced fenders, and streamlined silhouette make it instantly recognizable – a true classic that turns heads wherever it rolls.
Collectors prize the 1940 Indian Chief for its rarity and historical significance. In good condition, these motorcycles fetch around $27,000 on the market – a testament to their enduring appeal.
The Chief’s value goes beyond mere dollars and cents; it represents a piece of motorcycling heritage. Its influence can be seen in many modern cruisers, proving that great design is timeless.
For enthusiasts of vintage motorcycles, owning a 1940 Indian Chief is like possessing a rolling work of art – a blend of form and function that continues to inspire.
1973 Kawasaki Z1
The 1973 Kawasaki Z1 roared onto the scene, quickly becoming a game-changer in the motorcycle world. This four-cylinder beast packed a punch with its 903cc engine, offering 150cc more displacement than its rival, the Honda CB750.
Motorcyclists were blown away by its raw power and smooth ride, making it an instant hit among enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Despite its brief two-year production run, the Z1’s impact on the industry was massive. Its performance and design set new standards, influencing future generations of sport bikes.
Today, well-preserved Z1s are highly sought after by collectors, often fetching up to $55,000 at auction. This steep price tag reflects not only its rarity but also its significant place in motorcycle history as a true icon of speed and innovation.
1962 Norton Manx 500
The 1962 Norton Manx 500 stands as a legendary racing motorcycle, revered for its exceptional performance and sleek design. This British-made machine dominated Grand Prix racing circuits throughout the 1950s and early 1960s, earning a reputation as one of the most successful racing bikes of its era.
With its distinctive “featherbed” frame and powerful single-cylinder engine, the Manx 500 could reach speeds of up to 140 mph on the track.
Collectors prize the Norton Manx 500 for its rarity and historical significance. Only a limited number were produced, making them highly sought-after in the vintage motorcycle market.
The bike’s innovative features, including its advanced suspension system and aerodynamic fairing, set new standards for motorcycle engineering. Today, a well-preserved 1962 Norton Manx 500 can fetch upwards of $40,000 at auction, reflecting its status as a true icon of motorcycling history.
Beyond its racing pedigree, the Norton Manx 500 played a crucial role in shaping motorcycle culture. It inspired the café racer movement, influencing the design of countless street bikes and custom builds.
The Manx’s lightweight construction and nimble handling characteristics made it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking high-performance rides. Its legacy lives on in modern sportbikes, which continue to draw inspiration from the Manx’s innovative design principles and racing-focused engineering.
1968 Norton Commando
The 1968 Norton Commando burst onto the scene, quickly becoming a legend in the motorcycle world. This British-made beauty packed a 745cc parallel-twin engine that delivered smooth power and impressive performance.
Riders appreciated its innovative Isolastic engine mounting system, which reduced vibrations significantly compared to other bikes of the era. This clever design allowed the Commando to offer a comfortable ride without sacrificing its sporty handling.
Norton’s engineering prowess shone through in every aspect of the Commando. Its sleek lines and classic styling turned heads wherever it went, while its robust frame and suspension provided exceptional stability on the road.
The bike’s responsive controls and nimble handling made it a favorite among enthusiasts who craved an engaging riding experience. Despite its age, well-maintained Commandos can still be found at auctions for under $10,000, making them an accessible entry point for collectors looking to own a piece of motorcycle history.
The Commando’s impact on the industry was significant, inspiring future generations of motorcycles and earning numerous accolades during its production run. Its blend of style, performance, and innovative technology set a new standard for what riders could expect from a production motorcycle.
Today, the 1968 Norton Commando remains a highly sought-after model among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts, prized for its timeless design and the pure, analog riding experience it offers in an increasingly digital world.
1967 Triumph Bonneville T120
The 1967 Triumph Bonneville T120 stands as a pinnacle of British motorcycle engineering. This iconic bike captivated riders with its sleek design and powerful performance. Featuring a 649cc parallel-twin engine, the T120 could reach speeds of up to 115 mph, making it one of the fastest production motorcycles of its time.
Its distinctive chrome fuel tank and peashooter exhausts became hallmarks of the Bonneville line, influencing motorcycle aesthetics for decades to come.
Collectors prize the ’67 Bonneville for its historical significance and enduring appeal. Well-preserved examples can fetch upwards of $15,000 at auction, with prices continuing to climb.
The T120’s popularity extends beyond its looks – its reliability and ease of maintenance make it a favorite among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy riding their classics. Despite being over half a century old, many T120s remain road-worthy today, a testament to Triumph’s build quality and the bike’s timeless design.
1955 Moto Guzzi V8
The 1955 Moto Guzzi V8 stands as a marvel of Italian engineering and design. This groundbreaking motorcycle featured a revolutionary 500cc eight-cylinder engine, a feat unheard of in its time.
Moto Guzzi’s engineers packed this powerhouse into a sleek frame, creating a bike that was both visually striking and technologically advanced. The V8’s distinctive engine configuration allowed for high-revving performance, making it a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack.
Collectors prize the Moto Guzzi V8 for its rarity and historical significance. Only a handful of these motorcycles were ever produced, making them highly sought after in the vintage motorcycle market.
At auction, a well-preserved Moto Guzzi V8 can fetch several hundred thousand dollars, reflecting its status as a true collector’s item. The bike’s innovative fiberglass fairing, another ahead-of-its-time feature, contributed to its aerodynamic profile and set it apart from contemporaries.
This combination of cutting-edge technology and limited production numbers has cemented the V8’s place as one of the most desirable vintage motorcycles in existence.
1923 Harley-Davidson JD
The 1923 Harley-Davidson JD stands as a cornerstone in motorcycle history. This iconic machine, with its 74 cubic inch (1,200 cc) F-head V-twin engine, represented a significant leap forward in two-wheeler technology.
Sporting a three-speed transmission and capable of reaching speeds up to 60 mph, the JD was a powerhouse for its time. Its sturdy frame and improved suspension made it a favorite among riders seeking both performance and comfort.
Collectors prize the JD for its historical significance and rugged charm. At auctions, well-preserved examples can fetch upwards of $50,000, showcasing its enduring value. The bike’s design reflects the early connection between bicycles and motorcycles, with its pedal-start system and bicycle-like frame.
This model played a crucial role in establishing Harley-Davidson as a major player in the motorcycle industry, setting the stage for future innovations in roadster design and engine technology.
Restoring a 1923 JD presents both challenges and rewards for vintage motorcycle enthusiasts. Original parts can be hard to come by, often requiring custom fabrication or sourcing from specialized suppliers.
However, the process of bringing one of these classics back to life offers a unique glimpse into early 20th-century engineering. Many collectors view owning a JD as not just possessing a motorcycle, but preserving a piece of American industrial heritage.
Conclusion
These vintage motorcycles represent the pinnacle of two-wheeled engineering and design. From the sleek Vincent Black Shadow to the iconic Harley-Davidson JD, each bike tells a unique story of innovation and craftsmanship.
Collectors who acquire these gems aren’t just owning vehicles – they’re preserving pieces of motorcycling history. Whether you’re drawn to the raw power of the Kawasaki Z1 or the elegant lines of the Brough Superior SS100, these bikes offer something special for every enthusiast.
Ride on, collectors – your next great find awaits!
References
- https://iconicmotorbikeauctions.com/auction/1950-vincent-black-shadow-series-c/
- https://www.runmotorun.com/motorcycle-musings/the-history-of-the-vincent-black-shadow-a-classic-vintage-motorcycle (2024-01-23)
- https://www.brough-superior-motorcycles.com/en/brough-superior-models/ss100/article/original
- https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/blogs/worlds-first-superbike-1937-brough-superior-ss100-superiority-complex/
- https://auto.howstuffworks.com/1969-honda-cb750.htm (2007-09-30)
- https://global.honda/en/heritage/episodes/1969cb750four.html
- https://www.slashgear.com/1379522/vintage-motorcycles-every-collector-would-love/
- https://www.indianmotorcycles.net/threads/1940-indian-chief.342595/ (2021-10-20)
- https://www.classicbikehub.uk/reviews/article/kawa030417/ (2015-08-31)
- https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/news/15-vintage-motorcycles-every-collector-dreams-of-owning/ss-BB1oatNz?item=flightsprg-tipsubsc-v1a?season (2024-06-13)
- https://www.caferacer.net/threads/1962-manx-norton-an-autojumble-and-ebay-special.40854/ (2020-04-28)
- https://magazine.cycleworld.com/article/1962/11/1/norton-manx-350-500
- https://www.accessnorton.com/NortonCommando/commando-values.554/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8O_7zwGFGwI
- https://www.footmanjames.co.uk/blog/classic-bike-of-the-month-moto-guzzi-v8/
- https://www.jdpower.com/motorcycles/1923/harley-davidson
