"I get a great deal of satisfaction from exceeding expectations," Ben Walker, Bonhams' Head of Motorcycles, told us in his recent exclusive interview. And the firm has certainly managed this so far, with results including the World Record price for an auctioned motorcycle.
And now 2012 could well be 'the year of the classic motorcycle', especially following Bonhams' recent auctioning of the 1949 Triumph Trophy TR5 Scrambler Custom ridden by none other than The Fonz himself in classic TV sitcom, Happy Days.
Fonz's motorcycle auctioned for more than $75,000.
And there's no rest for Bonhams, especially when the collectibles in question are on two wheels. The auctioneer is already gearing up for its second annual Las Vegas Motorcycle Sale. The US sale will take place on January 12.
 A 1965 Rickman Triumph Metisse painted by the artist Von Dutch |
A pair of rare Benelli racers is among the event's highlights, including an ex-works GP bike. Also for sale are almost 50 motorcycles from the esteemed American du Pont family. More than 100 other motorcycles of various eras and models will also appear for sale.
Meanwhile, an ex-Gordy Clark 1915 Harley-Davidson 11-F Twin - widely considered to be the best original condition motorcycle of this kind in the world - is expected to draw global interest from bidders. It is estimated at $200,000-250,000.
A 2005 MV Agusta F4 once owned by Easy Rider star Peter Fonda will also star. As will a 1965 Rickman Triumph Metisse with fiberglass bodywork pinstriped by the artist Von Dutch.
As you may known if you're a regular reader of Paul Fraser Collectibles, the idea of 'artist-modified vehicles' is nothing new. Particularly classic cars - big "art car" exponents have included Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons and David Hockney.
Pieces we have for sale at Paul Fraser Collectibles include this fascinating book entitled Art Cars.
It has been signed by David Hockney himself - one of the most important artists of the 20th century. We have it for sale priced at just £495 - you can find out more about it here.
Watch this space for more news on Bonhams' upcoming Las Vegas motorcycles auction.
