1.28 million for this vintage motorcycle: record broken!
The auctions are often associated with very expensive paintings or extravagant jewelry. But this time, a motorcycle has been the star of the show! In a sale in Las Vegas, a Cyclone V-Twin Roadster from 1915 broke all records by selling for $1.28 million. Yes, you read that right. A motorcycle over a century old sold for a price that makes enthusiasts of classic machines dream (or cry).
Why such madness?
This yellow rocket is much more than a simple two-wheeled vehicle. With its retro look, its powerful engine for the time, and its fascinating history, it is the precious jewel in the world of collectors.
The Cyclone V-Twin Roadster is not just any motorcycle. Produced only between 1912 and 1915, fewer than 200 units of this machine came out of the brand’s factories. Today, it is estimated that only 14 models survive worldwide. So, whoever owns one is literally holding a treasure.
What adds an extra touch of madness is that this motorcycle came from a company that existed for only a few years. A true shooting star in the motorcycle industry, leaving an impressive legacy despite its short life.
An engine that caused a revolution in 1915
If today we talk about motorcycles with more than 200 horsepower, imagine what this Cyclone meant in 1915. It was equipped with a V-twin engine of 996 cc, featuring overhead valves and liquid cooling, delivering 45 horsepower. It may not impress compared to a modern hypersport, but it was a beast for its time!
This engine allowed it to reach 161 km/h. A speed that, in 1915, must have been absolutely dizzying, especially with the roads of that time. It was a true Formula One on two wheels.
An impeccable restoration
A motorcycle as legendary as this is not taken care of lightly. This Cyclone was meticulously restored by Stephen Wright, a recognized expert in restorations of collectible motorcycles. The yellow paint was redone to restore its original shine, and every detail was taken care of to make it look like the day it left the factory. With its astronomical price, this Cyclone becomes the most expensive motorcycle ever sold at auction. It surpasses a Harley-Davidson from 1908, which nearly reached one million dollars two years ago. A true revolution in the world of vintage motorcycle collectors.
