USA: Bonhams Motorcycle Auction A Flop? |
|
|
File under Events
Author: Mike Werner
Location: Normandy, France
|
|
The vintage motorcycle & memorabilia auction held by Bonhams in Las Vegas flopped pretty much. Most high value motorcycles, including the master piece, a 1939 BMW RS255 Kompressor, were withdrawn from auction since the reserve price was not met. It got sold eventually, but outside the auction.
Some classic motorcycles did do well however; the 1954 BMW Rennsport RS54 Sidecar, the motorcycle used to win the Sidecar World Championship, sold for a record US$148,000. Only 2 motorcycles were sold in the 6 figure bracket (the other being a 1952 Vincent 998cc Black Shadow).
 Steve McQueen's Husqvarna © New York Times/Jerry Garrett |
Several bikes were sold well below the expected estimate, like a 1920 Mars 956cc Type A20, which was expected to sell at US$120,000 but finally went for $75,000. Even Mr. Cool, Steve McQueen's 1970 Husqvarna did not sell.
Attendance however was so high there was standing room only.
Looks like the economy is still in the dumpster, even for rich collectors.
Via: Wheels - New York Times
|
|
|
Click here to Show/Hide 
