Bonhams hold £1 million bike auction

Bonhams were hailing the weekend’s auction success after selling over 85% of lots, and a sale total of £1,050,000.

The biggest money maker was a rare Vincent White Shadow. This stunning machine is almost identical in specification to the infamous Black Shadow, differing only in engine finish (the White Shadow has polished cases rather than black painted) and a different engine number prefix. The restored example auction came complete with comprehensive history and is reported to be in fine mechanical condition despite displaying 50,000 miles. Expected to reach £30,000 – £40,000 prior to the auction, the White Shadow reached a staggering £81,800 (including auction fees).

Other notable sales include £34,000 for a 1912 Indian 7hp Big Twin, and £34,500 for a 1977 MV Agusta 750S America. The star of the show (a 1957 MV Agusta 500cc GP bike expected to reach £180,000) failed to sell.