For decades, motorcycle collectors have pursued certain models not just for their mechanical qualities, but for the stories they represent. Rarity alone doesn’t guarantee value; it’s the historical significance, the engineering breakthroughs, and the sheer dedication behind these machines that drive prices into the stratosphere. This is a look at ten motorcycles that command attention—and serious money—from those who hunt them.
The Early Days of Power: 1908 Harley-Davidson Strap Tank
Price Range: Over $300,000
The 1908 Harley-Davidson Strap Tank represents the dawn of American motorcycling. Before dedicated motorcycle frames, early bikes were essentially bicycles with engines strapped on. While many of these early machines are unremarkable today, the Harley-Davidson Strap Tank is one of the few exceptions. This is where Harley-Davidson began, and that heritage makes it exceptionally collectible.
The Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles: 1929 Brough Superior SS100
Price Range: $200,000 – $300,000
In the interwar period, the Brough Superior SS100 earned its nickname: the “Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles.” Known for its exceptional build quality and blistering performance, it was one of the first bikes capable of exceeding 100 mph. The SS100 designation was no accident; the manufacturer certified that speed, making it a legend in its time.
American Innovation: 1938 Crocker “Small Tank” Twin
Price Range: Over $300,000
The 1938 Crocker Twin was a technological leap forward. Its overhead valve V-twin engine was revolutionary, but Crocker’s small production volume and high manufacturing costs meant these bikes were expensive even then. Today, their rarity and engineering prowess make them among the most coveted machines.
The Fastest of Its Era: 1950 Vincent Black Lightning
Price Range: $200,000 – $300,000
The Vincent Black Lightning was a pure racing machine. In the 1950s, it was unmatched in speed and performance. Today, surviving examples are exceedingly rare and command top dollar at auctions, though consistent sales fall between $200k and $300k.
British Racing Heritage: 1960 Matchless G50 Racer
Price Range: $30,000 – $40,000
The 1960 Matchless G50 was a product of the British motorcycle industry’s golden age. Though not inherently rare, original examples are hard to find today. The challenge for collectors is distinguishing genuine bikes from the numerous accurate replicas produced over the years.
An Imola-Inspired Classic: 1974 Ducati 750SS (Green Frame)
Price Range: $150,000 – $200,000
The “Green Frame” 750SS is one of the most desirable Ducatis ever made. With only 401 units produced, its rarity is undeniable. The livery pays homage to Paul Smart’s Imola 200-winning bike, making it a standout among the sea of red Ducatis. Finding a complete example is difficult, as many were ridden hard and not preserved.
A Homologation Masterpiece: 1990 Honda VFR750R (RC30)
Price Range: $40,000 – $50,000
The RC30 was no ordinary sportbike. Designed to dominate WorldSBK racing, just 3,000 were built to meet homologation requirements. Today, these machines are highly collectible. While its 118 horsepower might seem modest by modern standards, its racing pedigree is undeniable.
Engineering Experimentation: 1991 Bimota 1D Tesi
Price Range: $60,000 – $70,000
The Bimota 1D Tesi was a bold experiment in motorcycle design. Its hub-center steering was an elegant engineering solution, but its unconventional feel proved too challenging for most professional riders. This didn’t stop Bimota from producing a limited run of these rare machines.
The Oval-Piston Marvel: 1992 Honda NR750
Price Range: $90,000 – $100,000
The Honda NR750 hides a mechanical marvel beneath its plastic fairings. Its oval-piston V4 engine was a unique engineering achievement. The design left a lasting impression on engineers like Massimo Tamburini, influencing the iconic Ducati 916.
The Underdog’s Triumph: 1992 Britten V1000
Price Range: Over $300,000
The Britten V1000 represents the ultimate underdog story. Built by John Britten and his team in New Zealand, these machines were engineered from the ground up. With only ten built, their rarity is matched only by the inspirational story of a privateer team taking on factory-backed competition and proving that impossible dreams can come true.
These motorcycles aren’t just machines; they’re rolling testaments to engineering, racing history, and the enduring human spirit of innovation. Their value isn’t merely monetary but lies in the stories they carry—stories that collectors pay a premium to own.
