Lee Hartung’s unrestored 1913 Flying Merkel sold for $201,250 at Auctions America’s Hartung Collection auction Nov. 3-5, 2011.
Auctions America Explores Classic Motorcycle Market Trends at Las Vegas Auction
A group of the world’s leading experts in collectible motorcycles, including two members of the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) Hall of Fame, will share their wisdom at an exclusive market seminar presented by Auctions America by RM its debut Las Vegas Premier Motorcycle event, Jan. 12-14, 2012.
Hosted by well-known motorcycle guru and SPEED commentator Dave Despain, the one-hour seminar will be held in the main auction arena at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino on Saturday, Jan. 14, at 9 a.m. PDT. A continuing part of Auctions America’s educational series, the panel discussion will focus on the passion that drives the motorcycle hobby, including the continuing popularity of motorcycles as collectibles, as well as explore market trends and predictions for the 2012 auction season. The session will conclude with an interactive Q&A with the audience.
“We’re thrilled to be welcoming Dave Despain and our special guest panelists to Vegas as we work to provide an unforgettable event experience for motorcycle enthusiasts,” says Donnie Gould, president of Auctions America by RM. “Despain and each of our four panelists are among the best in their fields. The seminar promises an interesting and lively discussion, while providing a wealth of information about the collector motorcycle hobby. It’s a perfect way to launch our first Las Vegas motorcycle sale.”
The panel includes:
*Dave Despain, a 40-year broadcaster; Despain has been called the best-known TV personality in the history of motorcycling and is a member of the AMA Hall of Fame;
*Mark Hoyer, lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and editor-in-chief of Cycle World magazine;
*Doug Mitchel, regular Motorcycle Classics contributor and noted motorcycle photographer and author; Mitchel published his first book in 1994 and has since created more than 30 titles;
*Buzz Walneck, founder of Walneck’s Classic Cycle Trader and AMA Hall of Fame member; and
*Joe Bortz, prominent classic car and vintage motorcycle collector; Bortz’s motorcycles have been featured in multiple magazines, including Motorcycle Classics.
“The collector motorcycle hobby continues to evolve,” adds Despain. “Auctions America’s panel discussion will allow us to share personal anecdotes and stories about motorcycles that have touched or changed our lives. It’s a wonderful opportunity for both serious and amateur enthusiasts to learn more about the current state and future outlook for the hobby. I hope everyone rides away with a new understanding and appreciation for collectible motorcycles.”
Attendees will be treated to a complimentary hot breakfast at 8:30 a.m. prior to the start of the seminar, while an autograph signing session will follow the event, providing an opportunity for guests to meet each of the panelists in person.
The seminar acts as a prelude to Saturday’s auction program, featuring the sale of the historic 1894 Roper Steam Motorcycle. The second of just two steam-powered motorcycles built by Sylvester Roper of Roxbury, Massachusetts, the 117-year-old motorcycle is expected to establish a new world record for a motorcycle sold at auction. In total, some 400 collectible motorcycles are expected to be offered during the multi-day event.
Entry to the seminar is included as part of general admission. Enthusiasts can attend the three-day auction by purchasing a full-event pass for $50 or a single-day pass for $20. Children under 12 years of age receive free admission when accompanied by an adult.
For complete event, consignment, and bidding information about the Las Vegas Premier Motorcycle Auction, visit www.auctionsamerica.com or call toll free 877-906-2437 (or +1 260-927-9797 outside North America).
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. It is headquartered in Auburn, Indiana, at its 235-acre Auburn Auction Park and will host six multi-day events in 2012. The Auctions America by RM team, led by collector car expert Donnie Gould, specializes in the sale of American classics, European sports cars, Detroit muscle, hot rods, customs, and collectible motorcycles. To learn more about Auctions America by RM and its calendar of events, please visit www.auctionsamerica.com, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/auctionsamerica, or follow us on Twitter @auctionsamerica.