For motorcycle enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of owning a rare and iconic bike. Whether it’s the allure of a limited production model or the historical significance of a legendary design, certain motorcycles stand out as true collector’s dreams. In this article, we’ll explore 20 rare motorcycles that have captured the hearts of collectors around the world.
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Vincent Black Shadow
The Vincent Black Shadow remains a legend in the motorcycle world, celebrated for its unmatched performance during the 1950s. At the time, it was the fastest production motorcycle, capable of reaching speeds exceeding 125 mph. This bike’s distinctive black engine and pioneering design stand as a testament to British engineering excellence. Given its limited production and historical impact, the Black Shadow is highly coveted by collectors.
Brough Superior SS100
Often referred to as the “Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles,” the Brough Superior SS100 epitomizes luxury and performance. Each SS100 was custom-built, ensuring that no two bikes were exactly alike, which only enhances its allure. Known for its exceptional speed and handling, it set the standard in the 1920s and 1930s. With fewer than 400 units ever produced, this motorcycle is a rare and prized possession among collectors.
Ducati 750 SS
The Ducati 750 SS earned its place in history following Paul Smart’s victory in the 1972 Imola 200 race, which catapulted Ducati into the limelight as a premier racing brand. This model’s combination of striking design and exceptional performance has made it a collector’s favorite. Limited production numbers and the bike’s connection to a pivotal moment in racing history elevate its desirability. It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a piece of racing heritage.
Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead
The Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead is a cornerstone of American motorcycle history. Introduced in 1936, it was the first Harley to feature the innovative overhead valve engine, forever changing the landscape of motorcycle engineering. Recognizable by its unique knuckle-shaped rocker covers, the Knucklehead represents a significant leap forward for the brand. Today, well-preserved examples are rare and highly valued by collectors.
Indian Chief
The Indian Chief, produced from the 1920s through the 1950s, is an iconic American cruiser that symbolizes the golden age of motorcycling. With its flowing fenders and robust V-twin engine, the Chief exudes a timeless charm that continues to captivate enthusiasts. Its historical significance and distinctive design make it a highly sought-after model among collectors. Owning an Indian Chief is like holding a piece of Americana.
BMW R32
The BMW R32, introduced in 1923, marks the beginning of BMW’s long and storied motorcycle history. This model was the first to feature BMW’s now-signature “boxer” twin engine and shaft drive, setting a new standard in the industry. As the inaugural motorcycle produced by BMW, the R32 holds immense historical value. Its rarity and significance make it a must-have for collectors who appreciate the roots of motorcycle innovation.
MV Agusta 750S
Renowned for its elegant design and outstanding performance, the MV Agusta 750S is a true Italian masterpiece. Produced in the early 1970s, this model gained fame thanks to its racing heritage and the brand’s success in Grand Prix racing. The 750S’s inline-four engine and limited production run have made it a highly desirable collector’s item. For those who value both beauty and performance, this bike represents the best of both worlds.
Norton Commando
The Norton Commando, a British motorcycle icon of the 1960s and 1970s, is revered for its blend of power and handling. The revolutionary “Isolastic” frame, which minimized engine vibrations, set this bike apart from its competitors. With a successful racing pedigree and an unmistakable style, the Commando has secured its place in motorcycling history. Collectors value this model for its innovation and its role in defining an era.
Honda CB750 Sandcast
Often hailed as the world’s first “superbike,” the Honda CB750 Sandcast set a new benchmark in the industry when it was introduced in 1969. Its groundbreaking inline-four engine and front disc brake were revolutionary at the time. The early models, produced using a sandcasting process, are particularly rare and sought after. These bikes represent a turning point in motorcycle history, making them a collector’s dream.
Moto Guzzi V8
The Moto Guzzi V8, also known as the “Otto Cilindri,” is one of the most extraordinary and rarest motorcycles ever created. This 500cc V8 engine-powered bike was designed for racing in the 1950s, showcasing Moto Guzzi’s innovative spirit. Although its racing career was brief, the technological marvel of the V8 engine has left an indelible mark on the industry. Today, with only a handful in existence, it’s a highly coveted piece for serious collectors.
Yamaha TZ750
The Yamaha TZ750 is a legend in the world of motorcycle racing, known for its incredible speed and power. This bike dominated the racing circuits in the 1970s, particularly in AMA Superbike and the Daytona 200 races. Its powerful two-stroke engine made it a force to be reckoned with, and its success on the track has made it an icon. Collectors are drawn to the TZ750 for its racing pedigree and rarity.
Laverda Jota
The Laverda Jota was a powerhouse in the 1970s, celebrated as one of the fastest production motorcycles of its time. With its distinctive triple-cylinder engine and aggressive styling, the Jota became an instant hit among speed enthusiasts. Today, it remains a highly sought-after model due to its performance and the cult following it developed. Owning a Laverda Jota is like holding a piece of motorcycling history that embodies speed and power.
Ariel Square Four
The Ariel Square Four, introduced in the 1930s, is a unique British motorcycle known for its innovative “square” four-cylinder engine. This design offered riders an exceptionally smooth and powerful ride, making it a standout in its era. The engineering ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Square Four have made it a collector’s treasure. Its distinct design and limited production numbers contribute to its lasting appeal among motorcycle enthusiasts.
Suzuki RE5 Rotary
The Suzuki RE5 Rotary is a rare and fascinating motorcycle, notable for its unconventional rotary engine. Released in the mid-1970s, the RE5 was an ambitious departure from traditional motorcycle design, offering a smooth and unique riding experience. Although it wasn’t a commercial success, its rarity and the novelty of the rotary engine make it a coveted item among collectors. The RE5 is a testament to Suzuki’s willingness to push boundaries in motorcycle technology.
Harley-Davidson XR750
The Harley-Davidson XR750 is a cornerstone of flat track racing history, celebrated for its unmatched performance and handling. Since its debut in 1970, the XR750 has become the most successful flat track racing bike in history, dominating the sport for decades. Its racing heritage and influence on motorcycle design have solidified its place as an iconic machine. Collectors prize the XR750 not only for its success on the track but also for its rarity and significance.
Vincent Black Lightning
Revered as the “Holy Grail” of motorcycles, the Vincent Black Lightning is an ultra-rare, high-performance version of the Vincent Black Shadow. Built specifically for speed records and racing, only around 30 of these bikes were ever made. The Black Lightning’s legendary status, combined with its extreme rarity, makes it one of the most coveted motorcycles in the world. Owning one is the ultimate achievement for any serious motorcycle collector.
Crocker V-Twin
The Crocker V-Twin is an American legend, often compared to the best motorcycles ever produced, including the Vincent Black Shadow. Manufactured in Los Angeles during the 1930s and 1940s, the Crocker was known for its exceptional performance and customizable options. Each bike was hand-built, making every Crocker unique. With fewer than 100 units ever produced, the Crocker V-Twin is one of the rarest and most desired motorcycles, representing a golden era in American motorcycling.
Bimota Tesi 1D
The Bimota Tesi 1D stands out as a technological marvel, featuring an unconventional hub-center steering system that redefined motorcycle front-end design. Launched in the early 1990s, the Tesi 1D exemplified Bimota’s dedication to innovation and avant-garde design. Its rarity and distinctive engineering have made it a highly sought-after model among collectors. The Tesi 1D is not just a motorcycle; it’s a symbol of cutting-edge design and a prized addition to any collection.
MV Agusta F4 Serie Oro
The MV Agusta F4 Serie Oro is a masterpiece of modern motorcycle design and engineering. Released as a limited edition in 1999, the F4 Serie Oro featured cutting-edge materials like magnesium and carbon fiber, combined with impeccable craftsmanship. With only 300 units produced, this model is exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors. The F4 Serie Oro represents the pinnacle of motorcycle luxury and performance, making it a must-have for enthusiasts.
Honda NR750
The Honda NR750, also known as the RC40, is one of the most advanced and unique motorcycles ever created. Introduced in the early 1990s, it featured an innovative oval-piston engine, allowing it to perform like a V8 despite having a V4 configuration. This groundbreaking technology, combined with a limited production run, makes the NR750 a highly desirable collectible. The NR750 is a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess and remains a dream bike for collectors who value innovation and exclusivity.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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