Classic Collectibles

Classic Collectibles:
A Motorcyclist's Wish List
`by "Concours Charlie"`

The list of truly marvelous machines that follows reflects nearly a half century of riding, racing, restoring, and just plain loving motorcycles. The prices which accompany each entry have been kindly supplied by Jerry Wood of J. Wood and Co. (8375 W. Riverwood Dr., Crystal River, Florida 32629), an auctioneer who commonly presides over many prominent sales of antique motorcycles including those held at Daytona during Classic Bike Week. Naturally such prices are dependent on market demand and the condition of the bike. With luck, of course, you might still be able to make off with one of these gems from some unsuspecting sucker who only saw it as a pile of parts in grandpa's barn, but this is what you should expect to pay. The photos here are not factory supplied literature; rather, they show street ridden examples encountered at club rallies and vintage meets. Readers who wish to learn more about these rare machines will find a host of books available through the mail fromClassic Motorbooks (call (800) 826 6600 for a catalogue). If you decide that you might be in the market for one of these beauties, check out Hemmings Motor News, a magazine which often features classic bikes in its classified pages.

1. Brough Superior SS100 KTOR,996cc Vee Twin Over Head Valve (O.H.V.), 1924-1940

2. Vincent H.R.D., 1000cc Vee Twin O.H.V., 1937-1955

Beyond all doubt the fastest classic motorcycle ever produced. The record books particularly attest to the awesome Black Lightning models from '48 on, an example of which, if a genuine Works built machine, can bring 100,000 or more if a true Record Holder. One peg down in performance is the Black Shadow, nearly identical to the Lightning but road equipped and capable of 125 m.p.h., a good example of which can be had for anywhere from 17 to 30,000. Vincent Vee Twins proved to be years ahead of all contemporary machines, their rigid structure, dual braked wheels front and rear, and innovative suspension leading the way for future designs. 3. Cyclone, 1000cc Vee Twin O.H.V., 1915-17

Although only a few were produced, these legendary machines were the most advanced twins ever made in America, boasting overhead camshaft configuration driven by shaft and bevel gears, not too unlike those utilized later in the Ducati twins, circa the 70s and 80s. Cyclones proved to be much faster than the contemporary designs from Harley and Indian, particularly in the hands of one Don Johns. $100,000. 4. Crocker, Vee Twin 61 cubic inch O.H.V. Pushrod Operated, 1936-42

Produced in limited quantities during the late thirties and on into the early forties, these memorable machines possessed an early customized styling that swept through America like wildfire after WW2, ultimately evolving into what became known as the "chopper." Crockers proved extremely fast and capable of besting both H.D.s and Indians because of its agile handling and powerful acceleration. $60-75,000. 5. MV 750 Sport America, 750cc, Transverse Double O.H.C. 4 Cylinder, 1973-77

Race fans around the world dreamed of--actually lusted after--one of these Italian fire engines, which together with the Gilera 4 cylinder racer had toppled Norton from its long held position of World Champion. After repeated rumors, they finally made it available in road form, and those fortunate enough to sample one never forgot the incredible sounds of those four exhaust pipes as well as the motor's long train of straight cut gears. The Japanese later copied the layout, typically improving upon a proven design by employing a chain for the drive to the topside camshafts, which had the effect of reducing engine noise and weight, as well as manufacturing cost. $50,000 and up. 6. Harley Davidson, 61 cubic inch Vee Twin O.H.V. Knucklehead EL, 1936-41

This nicely balanced and quite handsome design proved a stout performer, clearly throwing down the gauntlet to Indian, Harley's chief rival, who sadly were never able to field a modern contender. Highly prized, they are seldom seen available for sale. One look at the peculiar shape given the push rod tube/rocker box explains the term "knucklehead" as a clenched fist is easily imagined. In 1936, one of these, suitably modified, set a new record in America of 136.183 m.p.h. Prices range from $15,000 to 30,000. 7. Norton Manx Senior, 500cc Single Shaft and Bevel Driven O.H.C. 1927-63

The Manx Senior ruled its racing class for so many years it seemed unbeatable. A remarkably tireless overhead camshaft single cylinder design, it reigned until more modern 4 cylinder designs from Italy forced it out of the winner's circle. Although Norton also offered the Manx as a 350 cc Junior model, it is the big brother that proved the more successful, and today continues to demand prices in excess of 25,000. One can also purchase new replicas, built from aftermarket components that still run strong. 8. Matchless G50 500cc and AJS 7R 350 cc Single Chain Driven O.H.C. 1948-63

A development of the A.J.S. Jr. 350 cc "Boys Racer," these remarkably capable machines have proven to respond to modern tuning techniques by running faster than ever, and now will generally "see off" a Manx with ease, having won countless vintage events. Its combination of quality, beauty, and power is altogether stunning. Quite rare and bringing in excess of $ 20,000. As with the Manx, modern replicas can be purchased today and are themselves proven race winners. 9. Indian, 1265cc Intake Over Exhaust (I.O.E.) In Line Four, 1927-42

Although in production for several years, the 38 version "got it right" both style wise and in its porting arrangements. This super smooth performer had no counterpart at Harley and proved very popular as a Police mount. A superb road bike, now valued at 20-30,000 dollars. 10. Henderson and A.C.E., 1068cc I.O.E. In line Four 1912-41

First to clear up some confusion-- Henderson, ACE and Indian were all directly the fruit of one man, Bill Henderson, who, aided by his brother Tom, created the original four cylinder prototype in 1912, and christened it the Henderson. In 1920, Henderson became ACE, which in turn was absorbed by Indian in 1927. Much of the subsequent design was done by Arthur O. Lemon, who had worked with Henderson since 1915. The end of these great motorcycles finally came when Indian allowed them to die in 1941. Prime examples demand 30,000 to 40,000. Henderson: 15,000 to 35,000. ACE: 25,000 to 35,000. 11. Ducati, 750cc Desmo SS Vee Twin, Shaft and Bevel Gear Driven O.H.C., 1974

Produced in very limited quantities, these incredibly smooth and exquisite Italian machines simply enchant all who are lucky enough to sample their perfectly balanced qualities of great speed, "on rails" handling, effortless butter-slick gear shifts, and a booming unforgettable exhaust note. In a class by itself as far as providing soul satisfying experiences. One to keep. Demanding prices of 18,000 to 25,000. 12. Indian Chief, 74 cubic inch Flathead Vee Twin, 1925-53

Many customers fell for the opulent style of these colorful machines, certainly more flamboyant than technically advanced! However many preferred the more modern offerings of Harley, and so these dated designs faded away. Loaded with character, Indian Chiefs still attract devotees. Pre 40s: 8,500 to 15,000. Post 40s: 6,000 to 20,000. 13. Indian 101 Scout, 500 and 750cc Flathead Vee Twin 1924-1939

Perhaps the most versatile and beloved models from the great firm, not only for road use, but also for record setting and racing. These lovely and compact machines also became the favorite choice of every fairground's Wall of Death feature, from coast to coast. Similar in overall size and weight to most European and British machines, a Scout would not be out of place today as a town bike. A very desirable acquisition, indeed. 12,000 to 15,000. 14. Velocette Thruxton Single, 500cc, O.H.V. 1964-71

A prime example of the British thorobred big single, a "Velo" still holds the World's Record for 24 hours continuous running at better than 100 m.p.h.. Noted for its quality construction, fine handling, and good performance, these machines also offer great elegance and proper British good looks. 8,000-14,000. 15. B.S.A. Gold Star Single, 350 and 500cc Pushrod Operated O.H.V. 1949-62

Generally regarded as the most versatile of the British clubman-type street bikes, the Gold Star proved a winner in most forms of competition: whether it a road race, flat track, or scrambles; all fell to the booming Gold star. The Factory provided a wide variety of pistons, cams, etc. of proven race quality, so helping to facilitate many successes by private owners. Nice examples go for anywhere from about 4,500 to 17 grand. 16. Ariel Square Four, MK I and II 1000cc Four Cylinder Pushrod O.H.V. 1937-58

Remarkably smooth, and with a broad torque band, these beautifully cast and polished power units were exceeding compact for a 1000 cc motor. Their unique exhaust music is certainly thrilling, and Ariel's top gear spread is unmatched as it allows one to trundle along at 12 m.p.h. and smoothly accelerate to over one hundred, all the while in fourth! Clearly a gentlemen's tourer of great elegance and style, they function best when operated in a reasonable manner. Brutal riding will certainly reveal the bike's questionable handling and lead to engine overheating, possibly worse. For the cultured, not the racer. Prices range from 4,000 to 8,500. 17. B.S.A. Rocket Gold Star, 650cc Vertical Twin Pushrod O.H.V. 1962-3

The Rocket is a rare model (fewer than 1500 were built) combining a highly tuned 650cc vertical twin motor set into the Gold Star single cylinder chassis and wheels. Rockets sport good looks and offer excellent handling over twisties and back roads. Sadly it proved less reliable than the single at speed. Quick through the gears though, and possessing a wicked exhaust note, these attractive devices demand values of 3 to 8 grand. 18. Triumph 6T Thunderbird, Vertical Twin Pushrod O.H.V. 1949-66

Initially garbed in a sombre slate blue color, these vertical twins were endowed with wonderful character and serious good looks as well as great power from a tireless and willing engine. Sadly they lacked sufficient frame integrity to handle such power safely beyond speeds of 70-75 when they would begin a disconcerting weave, discouraging use of more throttle, except by the very brave! Their only rear suspension, termed a "sprung hub" was undamped and of little help regarding comfort, and only made handling worse. The frames were later to improve, becoming an equal of any then available. 2,600 to 8,000 19. B.M.W. R69, 600cc "Boxer" Twin Horizontal Opposed Pushrod Operated O.H.V. 1958-9

Quite the best of the line, these superbly finished and crafted motorcycles had no equals in regards to comfort, stamina, electrical equipment, and brakes. Damn near silent, dead oil tight, and having a top speed of over 100 m.p.h., Boxers were able to maintain high cruising speeds safely, day or night, with no rider fatigue or tiring of that marvelous motor. Their handling was generally quiet good; however, the wise rider quickly learned to turn the wick down when negotiating curves, or risk an unpleasant end to the ride. 2,500 to 3,600. 20. Matchless and AJS Vertical 500cc Vertical Twin O.H.V., 1948 -61

Imported form England first in 1949, these beautiful twins boasted very modern and finely crafted engines having a center, or third main bearing which contributed to their smoothness, particularly in their original 500cc capacity. Their superb swing-arm frame gave a remarkable ride, while providing improved handling. This layout, combined with the bike's overall finish, came to define a look of adventurous sophistication which worked to broaden the appeal of motorcycling in the fifties. 1,200 to 2,200.

Classic Collectibles: A Motorcyclist's Wish List by "Concours Charlie"

Classic Collectibles:
A Motorcyclist's Wish List
`by "Concours Charlie"`