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Sandcast K0 – 1969 Honda CB750

In Japan, Standard by AbhiLeave a Comment

Post Listing Update: Despite 54 bids up to $22,000, this CB750 did not meet reserve. Claimed to be in “museum quality”, this sandcast CB750 was acquired by the seller 20 years ago from the Newman-Haas chief, who was the second owner. As you probably know, the first 7,414 CB750s were built from sandcast molds before Soichiro Honda switched to a …

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In Canada – 1975 Hercules W2000

In Germany, Standard by AbhiLeave a Comment

Post Sale Update: After 24 bids on eBay, this Hercules sold for $6,100. In the early 70s, Suzuki, Norton, and DKW all brought rotary-powered bikes to the market, but DKW was the first. Outside of the UK, it was marketed as the Hercules Wankel 2000, or W2000. If you ignored the unique powertrain, the rest of the bike was fairly …

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1949 Indian Arrow

In America, Standard by AbhiLeave a Comment

Depending on who you ask, the Indian Arrow was either a terrible idea or a necessary pivot in a changing post-war market. Either way, it was a failure that unfortunately contributed to the company’s bankruptcy in 1953. In 1945, Ralph Rogers and some backers bought a controlling interest in Indian, and they stopped production of the legendary Scout because they …

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$25K 1958 European Classics: Ariel Square Four & BMW R69

In England, Sport, Standard by Tim HuberLeave a Comment

The late 1950’s was an interesting time for the motorcycle world. Countries had economically bounced back a great deal following WW2. This era would see some pretty iconic two-wheelers roll out of their respective factories and these are two great examples of machines that played a role in defining that era. Germany and England had (and still have) a pretty …

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3,367 Miles – 1972 BMW R75/5

In Germany, Standard by AbhiLeave a Comment

When BMW introduced the R75 as part of the /5 lineup, it was the biggest bike they offered. The /5 gained an electric start, coils, and an alternator to complement the reliable motor and 100+ top speed. Here’s a low mileage example of a /5 with the lovely toaster tank.

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Technological Marvel – 1955 Victoria Swing KR21

In Germany, Standard by AbhiLeave a Comment

Post Listing Update: This Victoria did not get any interest at the opening ask of $5,600. One of Norbert Riedel’s many contributions to the world of motorcycling was the design of the Victoria Swing, named for the fact that the motor was directly connected to the swingarm – it would rise and fall with the rear suspension! In addition, the …

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British Military Side-Valve – 1956 Triumph TRW

In England, Standard by Tim HuberLeave a Comment

The Triumph TRW is a fascinating machine that has become increasingly coveted in military collector circles in recent years. These 1950’s military Triumphs were never sold to the public (new from the manufacturer), which is a shame because these bikes (in my opinion) embody many quintessential elements of antique British motorcycles with its classic lines and recognizably British touches such …

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1987 Cagiva Alazzurra SS 650

In Italy, Standard by AbhiLeave a Comment

Post Listing Update: Despite being relisted several times, this Alazzurra could not get interest at the asking price of $4,500. In 1985, Cagiva bought Ducati to jump start their entry into the big bike market. Cagiva immediately took the Pantah and evolved it into the Alazzurra, and in 1986 they released a fully-faired version called the SS 650.