MidAmerica Auctions, the world's largest seller of antique motorcycles, has teamed up with Mecum Auctions, the world's largest collector car auction company, to bring you 50 years of collector vehicle auction experience.

Ron Christenson and Dana Mecum announce the MidAmerica Auction Segment during Mecum's inaugural Dallas Auction at the Dallas Convention Center. Consisting of 60 select antique and special interest motorcycles, the motorcycle segment will take place Thursday, October 6th, 2011 and will join nearly 600 quality muscle cars, classics, and street rods on the auction block. The auction will be shown live on Velocity by Discovery and on the internet. Phone and internet bidding available.

Among the motorcycles being offered is a 1973 Triumph X-75 Hurricane, and a 1946 Indian Chief, restored to factory correct standards by Bob Stark.

Contact MidAmerica for auction info: 800-473-2324 MidAuction@aol.com 

This year's Barber Vintage Festival is promising to be the best one yet, with an incredible schedule of events throughout the weekend. After an awesome day at the track on Saturday, you'll want to ride somewhere "motorcycle friendly" to eat, drink, hang, and tell lies with other riders, right?

Motus is hosting City Bike Nite, a block party for out-of-town visitors and local riders to celebrate some of what Birmingham has to offer in the way of local food, drinks, and music. Just a short ride from Barber, the Lakeview Historic District is a perfect spot to meet and spend some time with old friends and new. We have arranged free motorcycle parking as well as valet parking for cars.

Bring your historic, vintage, or modern bikes out and enjoy a bit of the local flavor of Birmingham. See you there -- Lee Conn, president 

 
1915 Harley-Davidson 11J "Electric" will be auctioned at Auction America's Barber Vintage Festival auction, October 8. It's estimated to fetch $65,000-$75,000.

Following its successful debut motorcycle offering in Auburn, Ind., earlier this month, Auctions America by RM is preparing two new dedicated motorcycle sales – an auction at the 7th Annual Barber Vintage Festival in Birmingham, Ala., October 8 and its all-new Las Vegas Premier Motorcycle Auction, January 12 – 14, 2012 in Nevada.

The two new sales are part of the company’s growing calendar of world-class vintage motorcycle events and auctions, having launched a vintage motorcycle division earlier this year to complement its collector car offerings and cater for client interests and requests.

“Despite fluctuations in the economic sector, the collector motorcycle market remains vibrant”, says vintage motorcycle market expert Glenn Bator, head of Auctions America’s vintage motorcycle division. “Like quality collector cars, great bikes are continuing to attract great prices at auction and remain a popular ‘alternative investment’ for collectors and enthusiasts, with the added value of being able to see, ride and enjoy them.”

The October 8 Barber Motorcycle Auction continues the tradition of an auction at the Barber Vintage Festival, which is going into its seventh year. Some 150 classic two wheelers are expected to cross the podium during the Saturday afternoon sale, catering for a diverse range of tastes and budgets. Notable sale entries include: a restored, well-documented 1956 Triton 650cc T120R, a beautiful example of an original Triton Cafe Racer (estimated to sell for $25,000 - $30,000); a highly sought-after, expertly-restored 1915 Harley-Davidson V-Twin Electric, the first year for Harley-Davidson’s all electric lights and three-speed transmission (estimated to sell for $65,000 - $75,000); and a beautiful 1926 Ace 1,000cc motorcycle, one of the most elegant of all early American motorcycles (estimated to sell for $75,000 - $85,000).

“The Barber Vintage Festival is one of the country’s premier motorcycle events and a wonderful showcase and celebration of the hobby. We’re excited to be working with the Barber Festival team and pleased with the diverse offering of bikes assembled for the sale. For collectors looking to join the roster and consign their bikes to the auction, a few limited consignment opportunities are still available,” Bator adds.

Auctions America by RM kicks off the 2012 collector calendar with its debut Las Vegas Premier Motorcycle Auction, January 12 – 14 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. The multi-day sale will present approximately 400 bikes, spanning a range of marques and eras with early consignments secured from around the world, including as far away as England and Italy. Headlining early entries is a selection of very rare, early bikes from the renowned Jerry DeMille Collection including a 1911 Wagner; a 1911 Sears Single Cylinder; a 1910½ Yale Single Cylinder; and a 1929 Cleveland.

In addition to the auction, Auctions America’s debut Vegas event will feature an exclusive motorcycle seminar on Saturday, January 14, with noted industry experts taking to the floor to share their market insights and predictions. Special guest panelists include Buzz Walneck, Founder of Walneck’s Magazines; Doug Mitchell, noted motorcycle author; Mark Hoyer, editor of Cycle World magazine; and respected collector Joe Bortz.

Both the Barber and Vegas sales will feature leading auctioneer Dennis Wisbey, joined on the podium by Glenn Bator who will offer color commentary.

For further information, full event details or to discuss motorcycle consignment opportunities, please contact Glenn Bator at gbator@auctionsamerica.com or +1 805-798-1802 or Wayne Pitt at wpitt@auctionsamerica.com or +1 734-664-8964. A frequently updated list of auction entries for both sales is available online at www.auctionsamerica.com.

About Auctions America by RM: Auctions America by RM was formed in July 2010 as a subsidiary of the world’s largest collector car auction house, RM Auctions, and specializes in American classics, Detroit muscle, hot rods, customs, and vintage motorcycles. In April 2011, the company expanded to include a vintage motorcycle division with the acquisition of Bator Vintage Motorcycle Auctions. The motorcycle division is led by the well-respected classic and antique motorcycle expert, Glenn Bator, joined by Wayne Pitt. For further information and to view upcoming events, please visit www.auctionsamerica.com or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/auctionsamerica.

Leather Therapy

Established History
Proven Results

• Award-winning leather care will enhance the look and bring back the luxurious feel of leather gear and wear
• Protects against UV damage & the Elements
• Minimizes Cracking and Fading
• Inhibits Mold, Mildew and Odors
• Increases Strength and Longevity
• Awesome on vinyl, too.

 www.LeatherTherapy.com – 800.711.8225

Available through Tucker Rocky and J&P Cycles

Silkolene PRO-PREP² is a high quality, hard surface coating especially formulated for motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs as well as multi usage on cars and trucks. PRO-PREP² restores the color and finish of plastics and painted surfaces, making subsequent cleaning much easier. PRO-PREP² prevents metal corrosion and for Off-Road use inhibits the adhesion of dirt and mud. The new fine mist spray tip applies an elusive “factory finish” appearance and also ensures smooth operation of plastic moving parts. PRO-PREP² also helps to waterproof and insulate ignition systems in wet conditions.  Unlike most other silicone spray PRO-PREP²’s exclusive formulation contains a limited amount of silicone avoiding that heavy greasy feel.   

MSRP $10.95 per 12.5 oz. can.  

See our complete line of products at www.silkoleneusa.com . 

Based in Birkenhead, England, Davida are the only remaining manufacturer of certified motorcycle helmets in the UK and their Davida Jet celebrates its 10^th anniversary this year. To commemorate this occasion visit www.davida.co.uk for details of their special anniversary competition.

Certified to ECE R2205 & ACU Gold Label, the Davida Jet is road legal throughout Europe. Davida is an ISO 9001 Accredited Company ensuring helmets are made to exacting standards with each stage of the helmet manufacturing process receives meticulous attention to detail.

The Davida Jet is a hand-built helmet constructed using a combination of time-honoured techniques and the highest-quality materials available. Unlike many modern products every Davida helmet benefits from the level of care in manufacture that can only come from skilled British craftsman who take pride in their creations.

Each helmet is finely finished with five and half square foot (more than half a square metre) of smooth quilted leather - other linings might be more cost – effective but leather is still unsurpassed for comfort and durability over the long term and Davida helmets are built to last. The attention to detail extends not only to construction but also to the finish where a wide range of distinctive colours and designs, inspired by iconic street culture and racing heraldry of the past, is hand applied in their factory.

But there is much more to Davida helmets than tradition. The Davida philosophy is to combine the skills and attention to detail of the past with the latest technology in safety and materials. The classic shape of the fibreglass shell is created from an initial mould that has been finely hand sculptured using traditional modelling clay techniques.

Sure these helmets evoke the past, but as soon as you pull away you will feel the difference. The unique shape of the Jet's fibreglass shell and liner has been designed using computer-aided design technology to follow the natural shape of the head; narrower at the jaw than at the temples, creating a snug fit that ensures the Davida Jet is incredibly stable and secure. As well as completely eliminating "lift," this ergonomic design hugs the head reassuringly and makes for a pleasantly quiet ride.

Davida Jet for comfort and safety whether you’re looking sharp in the city or eating the miles and soaking up the sights far away from the crowd.

Davida Jet U.K. RRP from £225.00. (Approx. $354 U.S.) 

Please visit www.davida.co.uk for full product information and to locate a dealer near you or e-mail: sales@davida.co.uk. Telephone: +44 (0)151 647 2419 Fax: +44 (0)151 649 9611 

Davida (UK) Ltd, 4-6 Pilgrim Street, Birkenhead, Wirral, United Kingdom, CH41 5EJ. 

The launch of the third generation Lockstraps has been a huge success. There has been an overwhelming response to the need of locking tie downs. Since last year, when the second generation Lockstraps launched, Lockstraps has acquired many new accounts in the motorcycle, landscape, hardware, boating, bicycle, automotive, tractor, and aviation markets. The new third generation Lockstraps are even better. They incorporate heat sealed clam shell packaging that can be set on a shelf or hung from a hang tag. The third generation Lockstraps caribiners incorporate thicker steel and have been heat treated for even more superior strength. They also increased the strength of the sliding clasp and push button spring.

Lockstraps are well constructed. Because of the carabineers, Lockstraps will never pop off like typical tie down straps with “S” hooks. They are built with an eight-braided stainless steel cable embedded between double nylon straps. Tough rivets keep dual combination carabineer locks in place at both ends of the Lockstraps. The owner may change the combination with each use if so desired and may set different combinations on either carabineer. (That way friends, kids, employees, or thieves cannot take them out of the truck or trailer) Lockstraps also incorporated a soft tie-extension so no scratching occurs. A lot of thought and effort was put into creating the best tie-down strap on the market. The Lockstraps locking tie downs provide piece of mind, security, and unmatchable quality.

The new, third generation Lockstraps are 8.5 feet long, 1.5 inches wide, 1/4 inch thick, and weigh 2.3 pounds each. They come backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a 120 day parts and labor warranty. Now you can secure motorcycles, ATVs, tools, equipment, bicycles, etc. in less than a minute. Each strap is sold individually with a retail price of   $39.95 - $44.95. Lockstraps can be found throughout an extensive dealer/distributor network throughout the states, worldwide, and online at: www.lockstraps.com 

 
The Team - (left to right) David Sharp (TM) Lawrence Wilkinson (Technical Support) Alastair Gibson (Cheif Mechanic & Builder) Mark Upham CEO & Eric Patterson (Rider)

The specially constructed 1,100cc SS model Brough Superior completed two opposite-direction runs through the measured mile at Bonneville Salt Flats on September 1, 2011, at a mean average speed of 124.98 mph, breaking the AMA 1350-A-VG Speed Record established by a 1350cc Indian in 2005 at 114 mph! 

Prepared over the last nine months by Brough’s chief engineer and designer Alastair Gibson [in his Brackley, Northants, workshop] the un-streamlined vintage Brough, running on pump gasoline, was ridden exclusively by 65-year old Eric Patterson, a former 120 mph record breaker at Bonneville on his own Norton-J.A.P.  The new record was achieved over a 5-day period, with eight runs in total. Timed speeds rose from an initial 93 mph, followed by two runs at 103 and 117 mph, breaking the 120 mph barrier on Tuesday August 30^th.  Following minor problems with an ignition cut out, and the substitution of “drop” handlebars, Wednesday’s first run produced an encouraging 125 mph but, unfortunately, with a low return of just 48 mph, due to a recalcitrant gear selector.  With midday temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Alastair knew that for optimum speed it was essential the bike ran in early morning time, inasmuch Eric’s ultimate two runs – at 127.07 and 122.90 mph – were undertaken on the final day at 8.19 and 9.09 am respectively. Alastair was assisted throughout on the mechanical side by F1 analyst Lawrence Wilkinson from New Zealand, enjoying a busman’s holiday from the hectic world of Grand Prix.    

The project was masterminded by Mark Upham, Brough Superior’s CEO, who came from the firm’s HQ at Pettenbach, Austria; also present were David Sharp, team manager, from Jersey, and technical specialist Sam Lovegrove from Cornwall. Further mechanical support was kindly provided by Alan Stulberg, hands-on proprietor of Revival, a renowned restoration business in Austin, Texas, which he closed for the week, travelling overland to Utah with a team of three mechanics.  Several of the Brough’s sponsors were present “on the salt”, and able to observe a selection of runs, including Brian Bossier of Diamond B, Mark Wilsmore of Ace Café, Mike Fitzsimons of Fitzsimons Engineering, Matt Hind of Men’s File magazine, Paul d’Orleans of The Vintagent, and Nick Smith from Bonhams.  Although unable to attend, various other firms and individuals made an extremely valuable contribution.  Brough Superior Motorcycles Ltd are therefore pleased to recognise the generous support provided by: British Only Austria, Barbour Jackets, Bradey Fabrications, IPL Engineering, First Place Finish Helm Handmade Boots, Robert Ianucci, Charlie Jones, Lewis Leathers, Nick Clements Photographer, Oakbridge Storage & Freight, Victor Olson, Andrew Paul, Ruby Helmets, Alan Sawyer of Luzzo Bespoke Limited, and Progresscoffeeroasting.  

Crucial to the success of this major undertaking was the generous gesture by Jay Leno who, for four disruptive days, placed The Big Dog Garage’s facilities at the team’s disposal enabling them to de-crate, assemble, and test run the machine after its arrival in Los Angeles. Profound thanks are also extended to Double RL, Ralph Lauren’s boho subsidiary, who hosted a brilliant Bon Voyage to Bonneville evening reception for 300 kindred spirits at 8150 Melrose Avenue on 24^th August…an occasion perhaps when RRL’s unique store was possibly even further enhanced…thanks to the presence of three new 1920s style highway model Brough Superiors…beside a Bonneville record-breaker-to-be.         

So what follows?  It is clearly too soon to confirm a return to Bonneville in 2012, but let us quote Alistair Gibson: “Despite some teething problems, and the extremely high temperatures under which we operated, we’ve gained invaluable experience.  With some modification this Brough’ll go quicker yet!” 

From our friends at Competition Accessories comes news on the 2011-2012 Shoei Helmet lineup. In all, 18 new graphics and colors were announced for the X-12, RF-1100, Multitec Modular, Quest and VFX-W off-road helmet lines.

Visit Competition Accessories for more information.