THE SPOKES MAN CRYSTAL BALL I’m frequently asked about the future as it concerns the antique and collector market. As such, this won’t be the first time I’ve weighed in on the subject, nor will it be the last, I’m sure. Traditionally, specific brands in specific models from specific eras take their turns sailing the peaks and valleys of the market. Most long-time observers and participants of the hobby recognize this. I will also posit that the general market as a whole still trends solidly up; just look in the rearview mirror at the past few years. If someone told you back in 2010 that all Knuckleheads would soon double in value, GREG ARNOLD A lifetime motorcycle-collecting hobbyist, Greg purchased his first motorbike at 11 years old from a neighbor in 1965 for $10. With his career background primarily rooted in the construction industry, Greg initially joined the Mecum team in 2011 to help remodel and expand Mecum Auctions’ Headquarters. In 2014, he put his passion for motorcycles to good use joining the Mecum motorcycle division as auction manager. Greg has two grown children, Ben and Violet, and lives with his wife, Cindy, in Mecum’s original hometown of Marengo, Illinois. or that 1970s and ‘80s off-road bikes would do the same or better, or that Indian Fours would surge way past the $100,000-mark, you probably wouldn’t have believed it. On the “valley” side of things, British bikes got a little soft for a while, but they have lately regained their share. The immediately postwar to 1960 British motorcycles are particularly strong with the larger displacement examples leading the way. What should we look for as the “next big things”? I’m still counting on Harley-Davidson Big Twin Flatheads, from the V series of the early 1930s to the last of the U series in 1948. There is still time to jump on the Harley-Davidson Panheads as well; the 1948s are already pretty expensive, but the rest are very accessible price-wise. Among other ones to watch are Nimbus Fours, which have always been undervalued, but that mistake is not going to last forever. BSA Thunderbolts and Triumph TR6s are still inexpensive and likely soon to rise in value as well. There’s a host of Ducatis, Bimotas and Aprilias, etc., that are not going to be cheap forever either. Those motorcycles represent the opportunity to buy supercar performance at a small fraction of the cost of a Ferrari or Lamborghini. Superbikes from Japan are also their equals and are equally a bargain. Now, let me suggest some motorcycles that are user-friendly, highway capable and very reasonable to purchase that I think will seriously gain in value before this decade is out. First up are 1970s and ‘80s BMW Airheads. It’s hard to find a finer motorcycle, and they are undervalued for what you get. Sure, an R90S can get pricey, but an R90/6 or an R100 is half the money. Second: try Moto Guzzi V7s, Ambassadors and Eldorados, etc., from the late 1960s through the 1980s. They are plenty fast enough and have that great Italian styling. Third, I recommend the Honda Fours from the 1970s in the sub- 750cc capacities, like the 350s, the 400s, the 500s and the 550s, particularly the Super Sports. I don’t think I even need to describe what great bikes they are. There are many more hidden gems out there that could be included in this list, but the point is that they will all be increasing in value very soon. Keep your eyes and ears open; you can likely find some of these to consign to the Mecum Las Vegas Motorcycle auction in January. If not, you’ll find them at the auction. Either way, you really can’t go wrong. We hope to see you there. 70 // MECUM.COM
