Silverstone Auctions held its debut sale during the British MotoGP on Saturday 11 June, offering a collection of over 90 motorcycle lots together with an array of ‘bike automobilia.
A number of entries achieved over their estimate, including BSA Gold Star models and two rare 1950s Maserati motorcycles that sold for an exceptional £5,620 each. Two Ducati Pantah Race Replicas sold at their estimated values and stay together as a pair, with subsequent sales on a number of unsold entries also concluded by Silverstone Auctions’ team.
In the automobilia section, a Mike Hailwood-gifted TAG Silverstone watch sold above its £4,200 estimate, as did the similarly valued 1960s ‘pudding basin’ Mike Hailwood helmet.
The superbikes section attracted particular interest, with Ducati models on offer including a road-going Ducati 1198 that was ridden by Valentino Rossi during a test session at Silverstone circuit last month. With a signature on the tank from the world champion, the purchaser was an ardent Rossi fan. Dawn Jones, who travelled from Devon just for the auction, placed the winning bid and spent over £18,000 for the “‘bike of her dreams”, with proceeds going to the Riders for Health charity.
“We thank all our clients who supported Silverstone Auctions’ debut event with such an extraordinary and eclectic catalogue of both classic and current motorcycles,” said Silverstone Auctions managing director Nick Whale. “A notable number of purchasers chose to bid via both ‘phone and on-line rather than attend in person due to concerns over the logistics of MotoGP race weekend. However, The Wing as a venue provides an exceptional facility at which to view and enjoy an auction, and we have taken the first step towards creating the heritage for a classic and current motorcycle auction to be held regularly at Silverstone Circuit.”
The next auction, on Saturday 23 July during the Silverstone Classic race weekend, will feature classic road and race cars as well as some current super cars. VIP parking and circuit transfer arrangements for vendors and buyers will be arranged for those attending the auction and not already at the Silverstone Classic event.
