Very few things can represent as much as a motorcycle. The freedom, independence and style of a single rider, man-made machine is a very beautiful thing. As is the case with cars, Americans have created some of the most iconic and groundbreaking examples of this two wheel mode of transportation. The progression of the motorcycle from its inception to now is a great story but there is just something about some of the early models that are undeniably appealing. Companies like Indian, Henderson and Harley-Davidson created some of the most unique and well- crafted machines during the first half of the 20th century. Their allure has continued to grow over time and that's why we were so excited to see this particular collection of motorcycles.
1927 Indian 600cc Scout, "Wall of Death"
Taking place from October 17 - October 18, Bonham's presents The Lonati Collection of rare and exquisite motorcycles at the auction house's Autumn Stafford Sale. CEO of the Santoni Group, Tiberio Lonati, is a well known avid motorcycle collector. "Mr. Lonati loved what motorcycles represent, 'complete freedom', the open road, something highly synonymous with US motorcycle marque, Harley-Davidson which is perhaps why he had so many!" From Bonhams:
Stored in an astonishing private museum of motorcycles, the prized collection celebrates American marques from across pivotal points in motorcycle manufacture. Highlights include a 1910 Pierce 688cc Four, estimate £60,000-80,000, a 1930 Indian 1,265cc Model 402 Four-cylinder Combination, estimate £40,000-50,000.
The Lonati Collection began with Tiberio's son, Francesco, who has a great love for motorcycles. With his enthusiasm for the machines, coupled with knowledge of his father's likes, Francesco managed to persuade his father to purchase his first motorcycle a civilianised 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA, now offered at estimate £14,000-18,000. This first motorcycle ignited a passion, and soon Mr. Lonati expanded to a vast sixty motorcycle collection, all housed in a private museum at the Santoni factory in Brescia, Italy.
The collection includes a variety of marques and models, including a 1916 Henderson 1,000cc Model F, estimate £30,000-40,000, pre-war great the 1911 Flying Merkel 500cc 'Racer', estimate £16,000-20,000, a 1920 Harley-Davidson Model J, estimate £18,000-24,000, and at one-hundred years old, the 1915 Thor 1,000cc Model U, estimate £28,000-25,000.
1928 Excelsior 750cc Super-X Frame
The motorcycles found in this collection are incredible examples of American design, technology and manufacturing. The details of such machines are astonishing and many of these items transcend the automotive genre and move into amazing works of art. People who can appreciate well made, complex systems will immediately be drawn to some of these bikes regardless if you ride or not. The Brvtalist always likes to showcase such beautifully brvtal machines. For more information and to see the rest of the collection please visit Bonhams.
-JRS
From top:
1910 Pierce 688cc Four Engine
1928 Henderson 1301cc Deluxe Four Engine
1930 Indian Model 402 Four "Combination"
1942 Harley-Davidson 739cc Military
1946 Harley-Davidson 74CI "Knucklehead"
1950 Harley-Davidson 1,200cc FL "Panhead"
