Scrapyard Vincent

Traditionally playing second fiddle to their four-wheeled counterparts in the investment stakes, classic motorcycles are fighting back – as the results of Bonhams’ recent Stafford show auction prove. Top of the shop was the very same 1939 ‘Scrapyard’ Vincent HRD Series-A Rapide that appeared here on the pages of Classic Driver, only a few weeks ago. Rescued from the scrapheap by its late owner Harry Lloyd, the bike sold for an astonishing £275,900.

Pre-War gems

Other machines of note include a 1930 OHV Brough Superior 680 Black Alpine, fetching £138,140, a 1926 OHV Coventry Eagle Flying Eight, which sold for £106,780 and a bright red 1955 Vincent Rapide Series-D which found a new owner for £56,350. The sale also made headlines due to the inclusion of a selection of machines owned by Top Gear presenters James May and Richard Hammond. Hammond’s 2010 Norton Commando 961SE sold for £15,180.

Racing Scott 

Another machine that caught our eye was a 1926 Scott racer ‘WU 6464’ – a machine that finished 18th in the 1926 Isle of Man TT. It sold for £34,500.

Bonhams Co-Chairman Malcolm Barber said: "The sale attracted international bidding, celebrity consignments, and saw the motorcycle market buoyant at this annual season-opener, the Stafford show. We saw many new collectors entering the market with strong bidding from English collectors and Continentals alike. We witnessed investment bidding, but the market as usual is supported by enthusiasts."

Photos: Bonhams. All prices stated include buyer’s premium.