What to make of the results from the Charterhouse auction of classic & vintage motorcycles on 26 October 2023?
There were some good prices made, a number of bargains, but also quite a few unsold in the 200 lots.
Let’s start with the positives.
A new 2022 Norvin built by specialist JMC Classics went under the hammer at £30,000. This isn’t just any old Norvin! All the component parts are new and include twin plug heads, electric start and Dellorto carbs. The vee-twin engine drives through a four-speed Black Shadow gearbox.
The rolling chassis is just as high spec with an impressive 250mm diameter magnesium 4LS front brake and 200mm TLS rear with cush drive. Forks are 38mm Ceriani GP and Falcon rear shocks/
The Norvin has completed just 600 miles, and comes with V5C, MOT, Vincent HRD Company inspection certificate and JMC Classics spec sheet.
At the other end of the size and complexity scale, an unregistered VeloSolex moped went for just £520, which has to be a snip in anyone’s book. Perfect for sitting alongside a Citroen 2CV in your garage.
Another complete bargain was 1929 AJS Model 12 which went for just £2,600. It’s Banbury Run eligible!
The description says it’s the first AJS fitted with a saddle tank and made for only two years, which gives rarity value. It comes with purchase invoice, V5C, old V5C, V5, buff log book, old MOTs. However it will need recommissioning.
Interest in Vincent vee-twins remains strong with a 1954 Vincent Black Shadow going for £48,000. Another restoration from JMC Classics and it’s in immaculate condition.
What it lacks in original patina, it makes up for in spec. That includes a new John Mossey (he of JMC Classics) engine stamped with an original number, high compression 8 to 1 pistons, electric starter, electronic ignition, alternator and new Amal Concentric carburettors.
Another bargain and one I wish I’d bid on! That’s this 1956 Matchless G3L converted to a trail bike. Clearly not original but for just £2,200 someone has a great period off-road capable motorcycle.
Now to a couple of notable ‘didn’t sells’.
Now, I admit to loving BMW’s aircooled flat twins and the RT versions in particular. I’ve had several and, believe, that fairing is the best ever at keeping off the weather. For several years up and up the M40 to London from Oxfordshire, and often on cross-country trips.
So when this 1987 BMW R100RT came up with an estimate of £3,500 – £4,000 I wasn’t surprised. However, it seems the market is quite there yet and it didn’t sell.
This one is in fantastic condition as well with 45,308 recorded miles. It was upgraded in 2019 with a stainless steel exhaust and a Sure Foot sidestand – the original items can fail after time so sensible mods. It also has Nikasil lined cylinders, a powder coated frame, new battery
Enduralast charging system, new screen, new timing chain and tensioner, new brake master cylinder, overhauled brake calipers, BMW touring panniers, clock /volt meter, owner’s and Haynes manuals and spare screen.
Wow, that’s a lot of bike for that price.
Inexplicably, to me at least, this Pioneer Run eligible 1912 Humber 2hp also failed to sell, even with a competitive estimate of £8,500 – £9,500.
Just look at it, it’s delightful. Fitted with the Armstrong three-speed motor gear rear hub and believed to be the only one in existence
Yes, it will need recommissioning because it was last ridden in 2008 and the magneto is mentioned as needing a check. Comes with buff log book , V5C, old V5 ,tax discs, old MOTs and purchase receipts from 1982 and 2008.
Click here for the full results
