Tag Archives: H&H Classics

Auctions, Industry News, Latest News

Historic 1975 Norvin among hundreds of classic two-wheelers auctioned

Historic 1975 Norvin among hundreds of classic two-wheelers auctioned at the National Motorcycle Museum.

H&H Classics has successfully sold 172 classic scooters and motorcycles (and counting) worth a combined £1 million in its final two-wheeler sale of 2023 at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull.

A rare 1975 Norvin stole the show, hammering away for £37,000.

A historic 1975 Norvin, which was featured and tested in the April 2018 issue of Classic Bike Guide, was one of the auction’s showstoppers and the day’s highest seller, achieving a final sale price of £37,000. Not to be outdone, the 1972 Suzuki GT750 J, which was entered into the sale by TV producer and presenter Henry Cole, with its iconic water-cooled engine, made waves by selling for £16,100, soaring past its £9,000 estimate.

Another highlight, a 1937 Rudge Ulster, distinguished by its performance in the Tourist Trophy races, fetched £10,580, significantly above its £6,000 pre-sale estimate.

Mike Davis, senior motorcycle specialist at H&H Classics, said: “Our latest sale at the National Motorcycle Museum has been a huge success with a great turnout. The fantastic bids, especially for the Norvin and Suzuki GT750 J, reflect the ongoing passion, enthusiasm and dedication of classic motorcycle aficionados.

A 1967 Vespa (Douglas) SS90 Super Sprint secured a cool £33,350.

“As we conclude our 2023 series of motorcycle and scooter auctions, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to all our vendors and bidders and we look forward to announcing our 2024 sale dates soon.”

Other notable results include a 1967 Vespa (Douglas) SS90 Super Sprint, which sold for £33,350 and a 1977 Triumph Bonneville Silver Jubilee, commemorating the Queen’s 25th anniversary on the throne, that fetched £16,100.

British engineering marvels continued to be in high demand with a 1970 BSA Rocket 3, which propelled to £7,820, and a 1954 BSA Gold Star, offered without reserve, fetching £7,590.

Further notable sales included a 1972 Honda CB500K, which doubled its pre-sale estimate with a final sale price of £5,060, and a c.1963 Greeves Silverstone, which raced to £4,830. Rounding out the auction’s highlights was a 1970s Triumph Drag Bike which achieved £4,600, tripling its £1,500 estimate.

H&H Classics’ preparations are now in full swing for its final classic, collector, and performance car auction of the year at The Pavilion Gardens, Buxton, on the 29 November 2023. To see the full list of lots available in the auction, visit www.handh.co.uk.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more info on H&H Classics head to their website: https://www.handh.co.uk/

Auctions, Industry News, Latest News

“The Rolls-Royce” of the motorcycle world, heads to auction

The 1935 Brough Superior 11-50, having been owned by a single owner for 57 years, is set to sell for an estimated price of £60,000- £70,000 at H&H Classics’ auction on 15 November at the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull.

George Brough, a racer, designer, and showman who crafted the 1935 Brough Superior 11-50, secured permission from the distinguished automobile manufacturer to describe his machines as ‘The Rolls-Royce of motorcycles’. He earned this distinction by assembling each machine twice, rigorously testing them, and personally certifying them. Later, in the mid-90s, the celebrated craftsman Robin James undertook its restoration.

This 1935 Brough Superior 11-50 motorcycle is a rare find, with only 47 produced that year. It has a unique history, having served with the Nottinghamshire Police Force and bearing the registration BAU 9 when dispatched from the Haydn Street factory in 1935. After its police duty, it made its way to the North Cumbrian fells, where it spent time sheep herding on a farm with its owner, Mr. Bird, before being bought by its current keeper in 1966 for the sum of £22 and 10 shillings.

Ian Cunningham, motorcycle specialist at H&H Classics, added: “This 1935 Brough Superior 11-50 stands out as exceptionally distinctive. The seller has cherished it for over half a century, using it on many events including the Alpine and Norwegian Rallies. The restoration work carried out by Robin James in the mid-1990s has preserved its authentic character while providing a great riding experience. Additionally, its historical connection with the Nottinghamshire Police Force adds to its unique appeal within the community.”

Interested buyers have the option to engage in the auction through in-person attendance at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull on 15 November or via remote means using online or telephone bidding.

Comprehensive guidance on how to participate, register, and access the full auction catalogue is available on the official H&H Classics website.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more info on H&H Classics head to their website: https://www.handh.co.uk/

Auctions, Industry News, Latest News

Iconic HRD Black Shadow among hundreds of classic two-wheelers sold at the National Motorcycle Museum

Over £1.2 million pounds worth of vintage scooters and classic motorcycles were successfully sold at H&H Classics’ most recent National Motorcycle Museum auction.

A total of 248 motorcycles and scooters were offered for sale, with a 1949 Vincent HRD Black Shadow stealing the show and fetching the highest price on the day, selling for £62,375.

Making waves and exceeding its lower estimate by over £10,000 was the 1968 Lambretta SX200, once owned by music legend Paul Weller. Following a rapid-fire bidding war, the iconic scooter finally sold for a fantastic £32,200. Meanwhile an extremely rare c.1936/7 Excelsior Manxman 4-valve also received great attention throughout the day and finally clinched a cool £39,100.

The demand for scooters remained high with Lambrettas accounting for half of the 10 most valuable lots selling during the day, ranging from an extremely original 1971 DL200 Electronic which sold for £18,975, to an ultra-rare 1966 SX225 ‘BelAir 2’which fetched £20,000.

“Our auction at the National Motorcycle Museum was once again another great success,” remarked Mike Davis, senior motorcycle specialist at H&H Classics. “These vehicles, each with its own slice of history, have found new homes and are set to embark on their next journeys. It’s great to see such continued enthusiasm for classic motorcycles and scooters, and we’re grateful to all of our vendors and bidders for their unwavering support.”

Sports bikes also received considerable interest during the sale with an Italian 1996 Bimota YB11 fetching an impressive £5,520 and Honda’s second generation 1996 CBR900RR ‘Fireblade’ commanding £2,530.

Triumphs continued to prove their desirability, achieving prices well above their initial estimates, with standout examples like a 1963 Thunderbird 650 fetching £5,865, a 2010 Thunderbird 1700 reaching £7,475, and a 1972 X-75 Hurricane achieving an impressive £18,975.

Adding to the great sales of the day were several no reserve bikes including a 1979 Honda CBX1000, which was sold for an impressive £12,190, closely followed by a c.1972 Triumph TR5T Trophy which fetched £11,730.

Other notable highlights included a 1922 Sunbeam 3 1/2hp which sold for £1,600 more than expected, and a 1958 BMW R50, listed without a reserve, revved up considerable interest and was finally acquired for £7,820.

H&H’s preparations are now in full swing for its upcoming classic, collector, and performance car auction at Imperial War Museum, Duxford on the 20 September 2023.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more info on H&H Classics head to their website: https://www.handh.co.uk/

Auctions, Industry News, Latest News

Guy Willison, X73 Hurricane Prototype and HRD Black Shadow bikes head for auction

H&H Classics have three bikes head for auction on the 12th July at the National Motorcycle Museum amongst them a Harley Davidson Night Train (owned by Guy Willison) and also featuring a X73 Hurricane Prototype and HRD Black Shadow.

Owned by the renowned Guy Willison (Skid) from TV’s ‘Shed & Buried’ and ‘Junk & Disorderly,’ this 2001 Harley Davidson Night Train is a showstopper.

In impeccable original condition and meticulously maintained, this Night Train has made appearances on popular TV series, showcasing its exceptional quality and undeniable allure. It boasts several extras, including a Stage 1 tuned carb model, straight shot exhaust, ‘bagger’ panniers, and custom enhancements crafted by the legendary Allen Millyard.

Next, we have the BSA Vetter Rocket 3 ‘X-75 Hurricane Prototype’, a legendary motorcycle that created a new class of cruisers. Crafted from two hand-built prototypes, this bike’s distinctive features and historical significance make it a coveted piece among motorcycle enthusiasts.

Last but not least, we have a meticulously restored 1949 Vincent HRD Black Shadow. With its limited production and superb condition, this vintage beauty exudes timeless elegance and represents the epitome of motorcycle engineering during its era. Expected to reach an incredible price of £55,000 – £65,000.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more info on H&H Classics head to their website: https://www.handh.co.uk/

Auctions, Industry News, Latest News

Auction showcasing the essence of Italian design and sprezzatura

Classic vehicle auction house, H&H Classics, is set to sell over 40 classic Italian-made scooters and motorcycles, from 11 different manufacturers, at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull, on 12 July.

The highly anticipated auction will bring together a diverse range of 248 motorcycles and scooters with a total estimated value of £1.5 million. A rich heritage of brands such as Ducati, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Vespa, Lambretta, and many more, will take centre stage at the auction.

Among the strong lot line-up is the 1996 Bimota YB11, a rare 1000cc thoroughbred superbike utilising the best of Italian and Japanese engineering of the late 1990s. The YB11 used the iconic Yamaha Thunderace engine in a beautiful twin spar frame, and has an estimated price of £4,500 to £5,500.

Fans of trail bikes will not be disappointed either, the 1973 Moto Guzzi Tuttoterrenois a rare all-terrain trail bike authentically restored back to its original condition. The two stroke, 125cc all-terrain bike is expected to fetch between £2,250 – £2,750.

The 1972 Benelli 125 Sport Special could be an ideal purchase for a buyer looking for a recently restored Italian import. Presented in the trademark metallic green racing colours, this sporty single cylinder motorcycle is expected to reach between £3,500 – £4,500.

Regarded by many as the most beautiful motorbike ever made, the 2000 MV Agusta F4 modern classic could be considered a steal at £7,500 – £8,500. MV Agusta rightly holds legendary status in the motorsport world having won 270 Grand Prix races, 38 World Riders’ Championships and 37 World Constructors Championships.

Those interested in Italian scooters will be excited for the 1966 Lambretta SX225 ‘BelAir 2’ which is argued to be the finest scooter Innocenti ever produced, whereas the 1978 Vespa (Douglas) Rally 200 represents an original scootering icon, with a mere two owners from new.

The hand built 1971 BSA X-75 Hurricane Prototype will also be offered for sale, commanding a price of £28,000 – £32,000 due to its historical significance and scarcity. Just two prototypes were built, but this example has been under sole ownership since 1982.

Mike Davis, motorcycle specialist at H&H Classics, said: “We are excited to present a remarkable collection of motorcycles and scooters at the upcoming National Motorcycle Museum auction. This varied assortment features a range of lots from well-known Italian manufacturers, truly capturing the essence of Italy’s rich motoring heritage. The collection exemplifies the ingenuity and passion that characterises the Italian motorcycle and scooter industry, evoking a variety of emotions and captivating the interest of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. From iconic scooters that have stood the test of time, to high-performance superbikes, each lot represents a cherished work of craftsmanship and design.”

Bidders and enthusiasts alike can explore the full catalogue of exceptional lots, each with its own distinctive story. Other lots include the prestigious 1949 HRD Black Shadow, which held the title of fastest road vehicle until the early 1960s. Paul Weller’s 1968 Lambretta SX200 will be up for sale, as well as the historically fascinating 1986 Vespa PK125 which belonged to Italian gangster Valerio Viccei.

Interested buyers can participate in the auction both in person at the National Motorcycle Museum, or remotely via online or telephone bidding. Detailed information on the bidding process, registration, and the complete auction catalogue can be found on the official H&H Classics website.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more info on H&H Classics head to their website: https://www.handh.co.uk/

Auctions, Industry News, Latest News

1936 Indian Four – £50,000 – £60,000 with H&H Classics

A very rare survivor – a 1936 Indian Four – £50,000 – £60,000 with H&H Classics on March 29th at the National Motorcycle Museum.

For those of us who simply love the design and ethos of the Indian motorcycle this Indian Four offers a rare opportunity to fulfil a dream when it comes to sale with H&H Classics at the National Motorcycle Museum on March 29th.

Mike Davis, who heads the H&H Bike Department, says: “It was purchased by the vendor as a project and sympathetically restored, retaining the 1980s paint. It is a rare survivor today in the UK and comes complete with a current V5C and other paperwork. We have been advised it is running well.”

Indian were at the forefront of motorcycle design during the pioneer years, introducing many innovations including sprung frames and electrical lighting systems at a time when their rivals were still employing designs not far removed from those found in the contemporary cycle industry. In 1911 they secured the first three places in the Senior TT, on the Isle of Man, with machines equipped with countershaft gearboxes and chain drive.

Throughout the 1920s and early 1930s, Indian continued to offer innovative solutions and adapted to the change in the North American marketplace that saw the motorcycle as transport threatened by the advent of affordable, mass-produced motorcars such as the Ford Model T, successfully transforming their products into “lifestyle” accessories, long before the concept had been invented. Although they produced successful single-cylinder models, influenced by the sporting machines produced in the UK, the Springfield factory was best known for their large capacity V-twins and the illustrious line of four-cylinder machines.

The Indian Four’s origins lay not in Springfield, but instead in Philadelphia, where following the sale of the Henderson four-cylinder design to the Schwinn company, William, or Bill Henderson established a new company, the ACE Motor Corporation, to produce a range of inlet over exhaust, inline-four cylinders ranging in capacity between 1168cc and 1266cc. The ACE company survived until 1927, despite the loss of its founder in 1922 when he was killed testing a new model, however, the deteriorating economic climate resulted in the ACE marque being purchased by Indian. The Indian fours continued to be marketed under the ACE brand until 1929 when they became the Indian Four. By the early 1930s the Indian 4 was well-integrated into the existing range, sharing features such as the leaf-sprung fork with their Vee-twin-powered siblings.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more info on H&H Classics head to their website: https://www.handh.co.uk/

Auctions, Industry News, Latest News

Two-Wheeled Maserati For Sale For £9,000

Two-wheeled Maserati for sale for £9,000 – £11,000 at the H&H Classics Sale on April 6th at the National Motorcycle Museum.

A rare 1955 Maserati 160T4 will be sold by H&H Classics on Wednesday, 6th April at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull for an estimate of £9, 000 – £11, 000.

Mike Davis, Head of H&H Classics Motorcycles, says: “This rare motorcycle was produced by Maserati in the 1950s. It has been a much loved part of a collection of Italian classics for a number of years and restored by a previous owner with a good degree of originality. It would make a great addition to any collection.”

The bike features Maserati’s own 160cc single cylinder four stroke engine and fitted with a sports seat, alloy rims and period correct tyres. It will need recommissioning. It comes to sale with a current V5C.

Maserati, more famous for manufacturing cars, began their association with two wheels when Carlo Maserati started his engineering career building single cylinder engines to mount on bicycles, working from a workshop just outside Milan.

During the First World War Alfieri Maserati, on completing his military service, set up a spark plug factory in Milan and in 1937 the Orsi family acquired the Maserati concern. When the home market showed signs of an increasing need for cheap motorised transport, especially on two wheels, Maserati decided to enter the motorcycle market by taking over the established Italmoto factory in Bologna. In 1953 all motorcycle production was transferred to the Maserati factory in Modena, with early production of motorcycles consisting of the 160cc four-stroke previously produced by Italmoto but now sporting the Trident logo and renamed the Tipo 160/ T4.

The company established a new department to design and produce their own bikes and the first model, the L/ 125/ T2, was influenced greatly by the German DKW design. Over the following years several new models were introduced with engine sizes varying from 50 cc to 250 cc but in 1957 news of serious financial difficulties within the Orsi group began to leak out. This was followed by the news of Maserati’s withdrawal from Formula One and other official competition. In 1960 the banks decided to ‘pull the plug’, marking the end for motorcycle manufacturing and the Maserati trident would in future only be seen on four wheeled vehicles.

This 1955 160T4 four stroke was restored a few years ago by a previous owner keeping a good degree of originality. Finished in typical Italian red with plenty of aluminium its undoubtedly a very pretty and extremely rare bike with its sports seat and alloy wheel rims. Part of a private collection for a number of years and supplied with a current V5C, it will need some recommissioning before use.

Check their website for more info: https://www.handh.co.uk/