2009 Daytona Motorcycle Auction

By John Landstrom
Published on March 23, 2009
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Some of the 174 classic bikes that were offered at the 2009 Daytona Antique and Classic Motorcycle Auction.
Some of the 174 classic bikes that were offered at the 2009 Daytona Antique and Classic Motorcycle Auction.
2 / 5
Ski-equipped 1951 Indian Warrior: A no-sale at $11,000.
Ski-equipped 1951 Indian Warrior: A no-sale at $11,000.
3 / 5
1993 Ducati 907IE with 13,700 miles fetched $4,600.
1993 Ducati 907IE with 13,700 miles fetched $4,600.
4 / 5
Lot 61A: The author’s “new” 1974 R90S, with Lester mag wheels.
Lot 61A: The author’s “new” 1974 R90S, with Lester mag wheels.
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This restored Whizzer brought $3,000.
This restored Whizzer brought $3,000.

The 22nd annual Daytona Antique and Classic Motorcycle Auction and Vintage Bike Meet, held March 7, marked a turning point, as Jerry Wood, who has run the auction from the beginning, is handing over ownership to Glenn Bator of Bator International. A California classic bike dealer and event organizer, Glenn has the experience to take the Daytona auction to the next level.

The main auction started 11 a.m. Saturday, and 95 motorcycles were sold in about 10 hours. Total sales without buyers’ premiums were $772,060, only marginally down from last year’s $790,349, suggesting the down economy hasn’t significantly dampened interest in the classic motorcycle market. You can see full details on the Bator Auctions website (www.BatorAuctions.com) but here are a few highlights and notes on condition and price.

Lot 7 — 1947 Whizzer with Schwinn frame, $1,900: Original paint, nice patina and running. I didn’t plan to buy a Whizzer, but sometimes early lots sell cheap. It seems to take a little while for some bidders to get warmed up; perhaps that’s why this cute old Whizzer didn’t even break $2,000.

Lot 16 — 1961 Triumph TR6 Custom, $4,400: Nice period custom built in 1964, old California black license plate. This bike really appealed to me; the peanut tank, Bates megaphones, clubman-style seat and orange paint all screamed “Kaliforina Kustom.” Lots of chrome and polished aluminum made this bike stand out as a cool bike from the early 1960s. I wish I had bid higher; $4,400 was a bargain.

Lot 22 — 1978 Benelli Sei, $3,750: 9,200 miles. The big 6-cylinder Benelli. It had original paint but non-stock exhaust. Condition was average for its age with some leaking gaskets. A very reasonable price for a bike that will always be considered an Italian exotic, although much work needs to be done before this bike meets its potential.

Lot 35 — 1972 Honda CL 350, $3,100: 5,300 miles, near mint condition, excellent original chrome and paint showing light corrosion on spokes and shocks. This bike fetched a good price because of its “minty” condition. Although not as collectible as 1969 and earlier 450 and 305 Hondas, I think it was a good deal for buyer and seller alike.

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