Amit Saraswat 
From vintage racers to iconic roadsters, the world of motorcycle collecting boasts some of the most coveted and valuable two-wheeled treasures. Auctions regularly showcase these rare and historic machines, with enthusiasts and collectors bidding fiercely to claim their piece of motorcycle history. Here, we delve into the top seven most expensive motorcycles ever sold at auction, each with its own fascinating story and unparalleled craftsmanship.
1. 1930 Brough Superior SS100 – $542,500
Renowned for its luxury and performance, the Brough Superior SS100 earned its place in motorcycle legend by winning the 1930 International Six Days Trial in Switzerland. Sold in 2019 for $542,500, this dismantled SS100 was meticulously restored to its former glory, highlighting the enduring appeal of Brough Superior’s craftsmanship and engineering excellence.
2. 1939 Crocker Big Tank – $704,000
Al Crocker’s visionary motorcycle designs captivated enthusiasts, with the Crocker Big Tank standing as a testament to American ingenuity and engineering prowess. With only around 100 units produced, the Crocker Big Tank remains a rare and coveted collector’s item, commanding a staggering $704,000 at auction and solidifying its status as an icon of American motorcycling.
3. 1907 Harley Davidson ‘Strap Tank’ – $715,000
As one of the earliest examples of Harley-Davidson’s pioneering motorcycles, the 1907 ‘Strap Tank’ holds a special place in motorcycle history. This meticulously preserved machine, the 94th Harley-Davidson ever manufactured, sold for $715,000, underscoring the enduring appeal of Harley-Davidson’s heritage and craftsmanship.
4. 1936 Crocker Small Tank – $825,000
While visually distinct from its ‘Big Tank’ counterpart, the Crocker Small Tank commands attention for its rarity and performance. With a top speed of 110mph, the Crocker Small Tank set new standards in pre-war motorcycle performance, fetching an astonishing $825,000 at auction and solidifying its status as a prized collector’s item.
5. 1915 Cyclone Board Track Racer – $852,500
Manufactured by the Joerns Manufacturing Company, the Cyclone Board Track Racer represents a pinnacle of American motorcycling innovation during the early 20th century. Despite its technological advancements, the Cyclone faced challenges due to reliability issues, with only a limited number surviving to this day. Steve McQueen’s ownership of one such example contributed to its auction price of $852,500, highlighting its esteemed provenance and historical significance.
6. 1951 Vincent Black Lightning – $929,000
The Vincent Black Lightning epitomises British engineering excellence and racing pedigree, boasting a litany of performance upgrades and record-setting achievements. With only 19 Black Lightnings remaining, this racing version of the Shadow commands unparalleled admiration among collectors. In 2018, one such example sold for $929,000, setting a new benchmark for motorcycle auction prices and cementing its status as the ultimate two-wheeled masterpiece.
7. 1908 Harley-Davidson Strap Tank $935,000
The most expensive motorcycle sold in an auction is the 1908 Harley-Davidson Strap Tank model, named for the nickel-plated steel bands used to attach the oil and fuel tanks to the frame. It garnered $935,000 at an auction in Las Vegas late last month. According to Mecum Auctions, Harley-Davidson made only 450 motorcycles in 1908—and only a handful still exist today.
As motorcycle collecting continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide, these seven iconic machines stand as testament to the rich heritage and enduring allure of motorcycling’s golden age. With each auction, they remind us of the timeless appeal and intrinsic value of these historic motorcycles.
