A 1984 Hildebrand & Wolfmuller machine, the world’s first production motorcycle and the machine to which the word “motorcycle” was first applied, sold to an American collector for a world record price of $161,000.
“It is interesting to note that the Bonhams international motorcycle department have now unearthed two of these extremely rare finds, both from the US, and strategically placed them in their international group auctions on both sides of the Atlantic to generate global interest,” a company statement reads.
Moreover, the ex-Otis Chandler first-year production 1901 Indian “Camel Back” Single, sold for $131,500. In addition to that, a rare, factory prepared competition 1939 BMW R51RS – one of only two known BMW factory racers in private hands and the only unrestored pre-War Rennsport in existence – made $130,200.
Also, a factory prepared 1929 Harley-Davidson “Peashooter” found in an Australian mine in complete original, unrestored condition brought a very worthy price $125,800 for a private collector. A 1916 Excelsior Board Track Racer in original condition from a prominent Gulf Coast collection – previously shown at Pebble Beach – sold for $117,000.
Other highlights included a 1913 Flying Merkel Model Seventy Twin sold for 115,000, while 1 of 12 built with original black frame with Chinese Red tinwork, a 1952 Vincent Series C Touring Rapide sold for $99,450.
“We were pleased to have already consigned during this auction some star lots for our next motorcycle sale at Quail Lodge in May. Bikes consigned to this upcoming auction include the ex-Steve McQueen Husqvarna 400 that was sold at this very location at the Imperial Palace by the McQueen Estate back in 1984,” said Mark Osborne, Head of the US Motoring Department.
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