Motorcycles have long symbolized freedom, rebellion, and sheer thrill. While modern bikes boast high-tech features and sleek designs, vintage motorcycles carry a charm and character that’s hard to replicate. More importantly, some old-school beauties have skyrocketed in value, turning into unexpected investment gems. Here are 15 vintage motorcycles worth far more than you’d ever imagine.
Vincent Black Shadow (1948-1955)
When it comes to vintage motorcycles, the Vincent Black Shadow is the holy grail. Engineered by Philip Vincent and his team, this British masterpiece was the fastest production bike of its era, boasting a top speed of 125 mph. Its 998cc V-twin engine and innovative features like a rear swingarm suspension set new standards in motorcycling. Production was limited to fewer than 1,700 units, adding to its exclusivity. The Black Shadow’s high-quality engineering and historical significance make it a prized asset among collectors. Well-preserved examples can fetch over $150,000 at auction, reflecting its status as a significant investment.
Brough Superior SS100 (1924-1940)
Often referred to as the “Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles,” the SS100 was designed to reach speeds of over 100 mph, a remarkable feat for its time. Each bike was handcrafted, featuring a 1,000cc V-twin engine with exceptional performance and reliability. With fewer than 3,000 units made, its rarity only adds to its allure. Today, the SS100 is highly coveted by collectors, with prices ranging from $250,000 to $500,000, depending on condition and provenance.
Harley-Davidson EL “Knucklehead” (1936-1947)
The Harley-Davidson EL is a true American classic. Introduced in 1936, its 61 cubic-inch V-twin engines featured an innovative overhead valve design, earning it the nickname “Knucklehead” due to the shape of the valve covers. This model marked a significant leap in Harley-Davidson’s performance and reliability. With its classic design, including the teardrop-shaped gas tank and large, sturdy frame, the Knucklehead quickly became an icon of American motorcycling. Its rarity— with fewer than 10,000 units produced, the Knucklehead can fetch upwards of $100,000 at auction —adding to its allure.
Indian Chief (1947-1953)
With its classic design featuring iconic balanced fenders and a robust V-twin engine, the Chief exemplifies mid-20th-century American motorcycle engineering. During its production run, it was praised for its smooth ride and durability, making it a popular choice for civilian and police use. Collectors appreciate its distinctive style and engineering heritage, contributing to its steady appreciation in value. These days, a beautifully restored Chief can easily fetch $35,000 to $50,000, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Norton Manx (1947-1962)
The Norton Manx is a legendary name in the world of motorcycle racing. Developed for the Isle of Man TT races, the Manx featured a single-cylinder engine with advanced engineering that set new standards in performance and handling. Its success on the track, including multiple race wins, solidified its status among collectors. The bike’s rarity and historical significance contribute to its high value today. Pristine models can command between $50,000 to $100,000, reflecting its status as a prized investment. The Manx’s combination of classic British engineering and racing history makes it a standout choice for enthusiasts and investors alike.
BMW R32 (1923-1926)
As BMW’s first motorcycle, it introduced the innovative flat-twin engine, a design that remains a hallmark of the brand. The R32’s shaft drive, a cutting-edge feature at the time, offered superior durability and smooth performance. Only a few thousand units were produced, making it a rare find today. Its classic design and historical significance as the foundation of BMW’s motorcycle legacy have driven prices upward. Collectors today see the R32 as a significant piece of history, often paying over $150,000 for a well-maintained example.
Ducati 750 Super Sport (1973-1974)
Launched to celebrate Ducati’s success at the Imola 200 race, this model is famed for its sleek design and impressive performance. With a 748cc V-twin engine and a green frame, it became an icon of 1970s racing bikes. Limited production and its racing pedigree make it highly sought after. Original models can fetch between $80,000 and $120,000 at auctions. Its historic significance, stylish design, and limited availability solidify its status as a valuable collector’s item. For investors and enthusiasts alike, the Ducati 750 Super Sport represents a smart financial investment and a prized piece of motorcycle history.
Triumph Bonneville T120 (1959-1975)
Launched to commemorate the Bonneville Salt Flats speed records, this model earned fame for its exceptional performance and classic design. Powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine, the T120 offered impressive power and speed for its era, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and racers. Its stylish design, featuring “tank badges” and a comfortable ride, further boosted its appeal. As an investment, the Bonneville T120 has proven to be a valuable asset. Pristine examples or those with documented racing history can fetch between $15,000 and $25,000 at auction.
Honda CB750 (1969-1978)
Often hailed as the world’s first superbike, the CB750 introduced the inline-four engine and front disc brakes, setting new standards for motorcycle engineering. Its innovative features, reliability, and influence on subsequent models have cemented its status as a collectible. Affordable and reliable, it became a bestseller. Nowadays, early models of the CB750, particularly the “sandcast” versions from 1969, can fetch $20,000 to $40,000.
Vincent HRD Series A Rapide (1936-1939)
With only 78 units ever produced, the Rapide is a prime example of pre-WWII engineering excellence. The motorcycle featured a groundbreaking 998cc V-twin engine, capable of reaching speeds over 100 mph—an impressive feat. Its innovative design, including a lightweight frame and advanced suspension, set it apart from its contemporaries. Collectors prize the Series A Rapide for its rarity, performance, and historical significance. Collectors now are willing to pay over $250,000 for a Rapide in excellent condition.
MV Agusta 750S (1970-1975)
The MV Agusta 750S is a beautiful blend of Italian design and engineering. Designed by the iconic Italian brand, the 750S features a 748cc inline-four engine, celebrated for its smooth performance and impressive power. With only 600 units produced, it remains a rare find, increasing its allure among collectors. The bike’s design, characterized by its sleek lines and distinctive livery, reflects the craftsmanship and style of the era. Its racing success, particularly in the endurance races of the 1970s, further enhances its desirability. Prices for this Italian stallion have soared in recent years, with top examples reaching $100,000.
Harley-Davidson XR750 (1970-Present)
The Harley-Davidson XR750 is the most successful race bike in American Flat Track racing history. Known for its dominance in American Flat Track racing, the XR750 secured 37 AMA Grand National Championships and 13 Daytona 200 wins, making it the most successful race bike in history. Its design features a rugged frame and a powerful 750cc V-twin engine optimized for speed and durability. As a collectible, vintage XR750s can command impressive prices, ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, with historically significant models fetching even more.
Moto Guzzi Le Mans (1976-1984)
The Moto Guzzi Le Mans is an Italian masterpiece with a distinctive style and performance. Famed for its Italian styling and performance, the Le Mans was designed with a racing pedigree inspired by the 24-hour Le Mans race. It features an air-cooled, transverse layout, which provides impressive handling and a unique riding experience. This model’s popularity stems from its balance of power, agility, and striking design, making it a beloved classic. Vintage models in good condition can command prices between $10,000 to $20,000, with rare versions going even higher.
Yamaha TZ750 (1974-1979)
The Yamaha TZ750 is a two-stroke legend that dominated the Grand Prix racing scene in the 1970s. Known for its dominance in the Grand Prix racing scene, the TZ750 was a two-stroke powerhouse featuring a 750cc inline-four engine, making it a formidable competitor. Its reputation for blistering speed and technical innovation, including a water-cooled system and advanced suspension, has made it a prized collectible. Limited production and historical significance contribute to its value, with well-preserved models often fetching between $50,000 and $75,000.
Suzuki GT750 (1972-1977)
Known affectionately as the “Water Buffalo” due to its innovative water-cooled engine, the GT750 was one of the first production bikes to feature liquid cooling, setting it apart from its air-cooled rivals. Its three-cylinder, two-stroke engine also delivered a smooth, powerful performance ahead of its time. Today, the GT750 is a sought-after collectible, with models fetching between $10,000 and $15,000 and rarer versions reaching even higher.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
No car company wants to deliver a dud. However, even though companies try their best to deliver excellent cars, some cars turn out to be lemons, breaking down frequently. This creates problems for both the consumer and the manufacturer.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
