Last month, the annual Las Vegas Mecum auction unfolded, as it does every January, attracting high-dollar motorcycles seeking new owners. While typically associated with sky-high prices, this year saw a departure from the norm.
Although the prices weren’t bargain-basement, some motorcycles that previously commanded hefty sums resurfaced and sold for less, reflecting challenging economic times. Here are a few notable bikes from the event:
The 1967 Penton 125, a bike pivotal in laying the groundwork for today’s KTM, fetched $11,000 in excellent condition, a price lower than that of a brand-new 150XC-W, making it a noteworthy piece of history.
A twin-port CZ, a significant milestone in motocross history, sold for $15,400.
The 1970 Husky 400 Cross, once owned by Malcolm Smith and restored by John LeFevre, changed hands for $12,100.
Only 600 of the 1978 Kawasaki KX250s were imported, with one selling for $23,100.
A Maico Six Days, ridden by Gerrit Wolsink in the 1980 Dutch Enduro Championship after winning the USGP five times, fetched $8800.
A perfectly restored 1976 Suzuki RM125A commanded $8800.
Another Suzuki, a 1976 RM250 retaining its original kickstand, went for $6600.
The 1976 Suzuki RM370A, in pristine condition, sold for $7150.
The Scott Super Squirrel, one of the earliest mainstream two-strokes, was priced at $7700.
Some bikes, like the 1981 Yamaha YZ465, went unrestored, offering buyers a chance to own a piece of history for $2200.
However, not every item found a new home; the 1977 Bultaco 370 Pursang remained unclaimed.
Moving on from the auction, there’s exciting news in the world of adventure and dual-sport motorcycle travel. The BDR non-profit, in collaboration with BMW Motorrad USA, Zero Motorcycles, Outback Motortek, and Edelweiss Bike Travel, has unveiled its thirteenth route: the Northern California Backcountry Discovery Route (CABDR-North).
This milestone route offers riders an opportunity to traverse off-pavement backcountry tracks from Mexico to Canada, providing exhilarating terrain, stunning scenery, and a rich history. Accompanying the route release is a documentary expedition film directed by Sterling Noren, offering insights into this epic journey.
In the realm of motorcycle products, Nihilo Concepts introduces crank stuffers tailored for KTM/Husqvarna/GASGAS 125/150 owners looking for a cost-effective crank repair solution.
Priced at $109.99, these machined aluminum stuffers offer improved performance and durability. Additionally, OEM complete plastic kits for KTM, GAS GAS, and Husqvarna off-road or MX machines are available for $199.99, allowing riders to customize their bikes with ease.
Moose Racing presents the 2024 Moose Moto Vest, designed for comfort and functionality during rides. Priced at $69.95, this lightweight, breathable vest features storage compartments, hand warmer pockets, and fade-resistant graphics.
Lastly, reminiscing about the past, the Yamaha OW27, Bob Hannah’s winning bike from the 1976 125 National Championship, remains an iconic machine, evoking memories of a bygone era in motocross history.
