Motorcycles

Top motorcycle sales at Monterey Car Week 2016 (and 7 bargains still available)

Top motorcycle sales at Monterey Car Week 2016 (and 7 bargains still available)
With a final price of $176,000, this 1974 Ducati 750 Supersport set a new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of US$152,885 (sold for EUR114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by Ducati NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012.)
With a final price of $176,000, this 1974 Ducati 750 Supersport set a new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of US$152,885 (sold for EUR114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by Ducati NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012.)
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From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
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From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
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From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
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From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
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From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000
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Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000
Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000
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Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000 
Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000
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Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000 
Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000
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Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000
This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
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This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
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This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
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This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
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This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
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This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
This largely original Indian board track racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint, sold for $88,000.
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This largely original Indian board track racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint, sold for $88,000.
This largely original Indian board track racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint, sold for $88,000.
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This largely original Indian board track racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint, sold for $88,000.
This largely original Indian board track racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint, sold for $88,000.
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This largely original Indian board track racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint, sold for $88,000.
From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
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From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
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From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
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From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
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From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this 1939 model was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild. It fetched $104,500
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From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this 1939 model was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild. It fetched $104,500
From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this 1939 model was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild. It fetched $104,500
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From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this 1939 model was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild. It fetched $104,500
This 1913 Excelsior Twin was another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year at $110,000. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.
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This 1913 Excelsior Twin was another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year at $110,000. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.
This 1913 Excelsior Twin was another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year at $110,000. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.
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This 1913 Excelsior Twin was another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year at $110,000. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.
This 1913 Excelsior Twin was another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year at $110,000. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.
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This 1913 Excelsior Twin was another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year at $110,000. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.
This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
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This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
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This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
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This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
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This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
With a final price of $176,000, this 1974 Ducati 750 Supersport set a new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of US$152,885 (sold for EUR114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by Ducati NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012.)
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With a final price of $176,000, this 1974 Ducati 750 Supersport set a new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of US$152,885 (sold for EUR114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by Ducati NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012.)
With a final price of $176,000, this 1974 Ducati 750 Supersport set a new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of US$152,885 (sold for EUR114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by Ducati NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012.)
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With a final price of $176,000, this 1974 Ducati 750 Supersport set a new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of US$152,885 (sold for EUR114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by Ducati NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012.)
This 1938 Crocker Small Tank was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for many a year - $280,000. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Mecum Auction Page Link
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This 1938 Crocker Small Tank was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for many a year - $280,000. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Mecum Auction Page Link
This 1938 Crocker Small Tank was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for many a year - $280,000. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Mecum Auction Page Link
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This 1938 Crocker Small Tank was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for many a year - $280,000. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Mecum Auction Page Link
This 1938 Crocker Small Tank was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for many a year - $280,000. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Mecum Auction Page Link
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This 1938 Crocker Small Tank was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for many a year - $280,000. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Mecum Auction Page Link
The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
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The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
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The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
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The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
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The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
This beautifully restored Indian Four was the first one off the production line in the final year of Indian Four Cylinder production. It was estimated to sell for $200,000 to $250,000 but the final bid of $121,000 landed the prize, adding up to $133,100 with buyer's premium and another Monterey bargain.
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This beautifully restored Indian Four was the first one off the production line in the final year of Indian Four Cylinder production. It was estimated to sell for $200,000 to $250,000 but the final bid of $121,000 landed the prize, adding up to $133,100 with buyer's premium and another Monterey bargain.
This beautifully restored Indian Four was the first one off the production line in the final year of Indian Four Cylinder production. It was estimated to sell for $200,000 to $250,000 but the final bid of $121,000 landed the prize, adding up to $133,100 with buyer's premium and another Monterey bargain.
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This beautifully restored Indian Four was the first one off the production line in the final year of Indian Four Cylinder production. It was estimated to sell for $200,000 to $250,000 but the final bid of $121,000 landed the prize, adding up to $133,100 with buyer's premium and another Monterey bargain.
This 2014 Lotus C-0 fetched the second highest unaccepted bid ($190,000) on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Mecum Auction Page Link
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This 2014 Lotus C-0 fetched the second highest unaccepted bid ($190,000) on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Mecum Auction Page Link
This 2014 Lotus C-0 fetched the second highest unaccepted bid ($190,000) on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Mecum Auction Page Link
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This 2014 Lotus C-0 fetched the second highest unaccepted bid ($190,000) on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Mecum Auction Page Link
This 2014 Lotus C-0 fetched the second highest unaccepted bid ($190,000) on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Mecum Auction Page Link
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This 2014 Lotus C-0 fetched the second highest unaccepted bid ($190,000) on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Mecum Auction Page Link
This very rare and very early factory 1927 BMW R47S race bike that was expected to sell in the $110,000 to $130,000 range but attracted a high bid of just $77,500 and was passed in. It is hence still available.
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This very rare and very early factory 1927 BMW R47S race bike that was expected to sell in the $110,000 to $130,000 range but attracted a high bid of just $77,500 and was passed in. It is hence still available.
From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
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From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
This very rare and very early factory 1927 BMW R47S race bike that was expected to sell in the $110,000 to $130,000 range but attracted a high bid of just $77,500 and was passed in. It is hence still available.
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This very rare and very early factory 1927 BMW R47S race bike that was expected to sell in the $110,000 to $130,000 range but attracted a high bid of just $77,500 and was passed in. It is hence still available.
From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this 1939 model was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild. It fetched $104,500
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From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this 1939 model was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild. It fetched $104,500
This 1949 Vincent 1000cc Rapide didn't sell with a high bid of just $40,000 against a conservative estimate of $70,000 to $75,000. Very original and not overly restored, and enough paperwork to validate that it's exactly what it appears to be: a very good example of one of motorcycling's most desirable classic motorcycles. Still available.
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This 1949 Vincent 1000cc Rapide  didn't sell with a high bid of just $40,000 against a conservative estimate of $70,000 to $75,000. Very original and not overly restored, and enough paperwork to validate that it's exactly what it appears to be: a very good example of one of motorcycling's most desirable classic motorcycles. Still available.
Originally from the Willy Neutkens Collection of Important BMW Motorcycles, this 1931 BMW R16 was estimated to fetch between $75,000 and $100,000 but only attracted a high bid of $52,000. Still available.
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Originally from the Willy Neutkens Collection of Important BMW Motorcycles, this 1931 BMW R16 was estimated to fetch between $75,000 and $100,000 but only attracted a high bid of $52,000. Still available.
This rare and highly desirable 1912 Thor Model U Twin from the annals of American motorcycle history, the 76.25 cubic inch (1250cc) Model U V-twin was marketed by Thor in period as the most powerful motorcycle yet known. The record at auction for the model was set in 2015 by Mecum Mid-America during the Las Vegas auctions when a 1914 model sold for $77,000 and a 1918 model sold for £32,200 ($49,715) in Bonhams' Lonatti Collection sale in October, 2015. Still available as it achieved a high bid of just $40,000.
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This rare and highly desirable 1912 Thor Model U Twin from the annals of American motorcycle history, the 76.25 cubic inch (1250cc) Model U V-twin was marketed by Thor in period as the most powerful motorcycle yet known. The record at auction for the model was set in 2015 by Mecum Mid-America during the Las Vegas auctions when a 1914 model sold for $77,000 and a 1918 model sold for £32,200 ($49,715) in Bonhams' Lonatti Collection sale in October, 2015. Still available as it achieved a high bid of just $40,000.
Estimated to sell for between $90,000 and $110,000, this 1929 BMW R63 attracted a high bid of just $67,000 and is still available. The R63 is very rare, as it was produced in low volume and was the first 750cc overhead valve motorcycle BMW produced. In the company's centenary year, it was an even more inexplicable result.
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Estimated to sell for between $90,000 and $110,000, this 1929 BMW R63 attracted a high bid of just $67,000 and is still available. The R63 is very rare, as it was produced in low volume and was the first 750cc overhead valve motorcycle BMW produced. In the company's centenary year, it was an even more inexplicable result.
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While Monterey Car Week's raft of auctions are primarily about cars, there's always a smattering of top class motorcycles going to auction. And with Mid-America auctions, America's largest motorcycle auction house, recently becoming part of Mecum, many of Mecum's lots featured significant motorcycles. Several of the major auction houses also included motorcycle lots in their catalogs, too.

This is not a normal auction report in that we've included a number of significant bikes that didn't sell, and we've listed them with their high bid. While auction sell-through rates were down on the car side of things, with some spectacular successes for very special offerings, the motorcycle results were downright depressing, with many spectacular motorcycles being sold for well below estimate and many more not even attracting bids of half their estimate.

Gooding & Company sold one of the original 400 batch of the Ducati 750 SS for a world record price, but there were no other motorcycle highlights in the entire five days of auctions.

This is both good and bad news for the enthusiast because some of the better motorcycles are clearly still available for sale and the next big round of motorcycle auctions isn't until January in Las Vegas, so that knocking you hear might be opportunity.

$40,000 (high bid) - 1949 Vincent 1000cc Rapide

This 1949 Vincent 1000cc Rapide didn't sell with a high bid of just $40,000 against a conservative estimate of $70,000 to $75,000. Very original and not overly restored, and enough paperwork to validate that it's exactly what it appears to be: a very good example of one of motorcycling's most desirable classic motorcycles. Still available.
This 1949 Vincent 1000cc Rapide  didn't sell with a high bid of just $40,000 against a conservative estimate of $70,000 to $75,000. Very original and not overly restored, and enough paperwork to validate that it's exactly what it appears to be: a very good example of one of motorcycling's most desirable classic motorcycles. Still available.

Mecum Auction Page Link

This bike didn't sell with a high bid of just US$40,000 against a conservative estimate of $70,000 to $75,000. Very original and not overly restored, and enough paperwork to validate that it's exactly what it appears to be: a very good example of one of motorcycling's most desirable classic motorcycles. Still available.

$40,000 (high bid) – 1912 Thor Model U Twin

This rare and highly desirable 1912 Thor Model U Twin from the annals of American motorcycle history, the 76.25 cubic inch (1250cc) Model U V-twin was marketed by Thor in period as the most powerful motorcycle yet known. The record at auction for the model was set in 2015 by Mecum Mid-America during the Las Vegas auctions when a 1914 model sold for $77,000 and a 1918 model sold for £32,200 ($49,715) in Bonhams' Lonatti Collection sale in October, 2015. Still available as it achieved a high bid of just $40,000.
This rare and highly desirable 1912 Thor Model U Twin from the annals of American motorcycle history, the 76.25 cubic inch (1250cc) Model U V-twin was marketed by Thor in period as the most powerful motorcycle yet known. The record at auction for the model was set in 2015 by Mecum Mid-America during the Las Vegas auctions when a 1914 model sold for $77,000 and a 1918 model sold for £32,200 ($49,715) in Bonhams' Lonatti Collection sale in October, 2015. Still available as it achieved a high bid of just $40,000.

Mecum Auction Page Link

A rare and highly desirable motorcycle from the annals of American motorcycle history, the 76.25 cubic inch (1250cc) Model U V-twin was marketed by Thor in period as the most powerful motorcycle yet known. The record at auction for the model was set in 2015 by Mecum Mid-America during the Las Vegas auctions when a 1914 model sold for $77,000 and a 1918 model sold for £32,200 ($49,715) in Bonhams' Lonatti Collection sale in October, 2015. Still available.

$55,000 – 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker

Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000
Another bike from the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed, this 1916 Harley-Davidson 16T V-Twin Board Tracker fetched $55,000

Mecum Auction Page Link

From the Dr. J. Craig Venter Collection and previously museum displayed.

$55,000 – 1913 Indian Single Board Track Racer

From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.
From the Venter Collection, this 1913 Indian Board Track Racer was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine and the bike has been museum displayed. It fetched $55,000.

Mecum Auction Page Link

From the Venter Collection, this bike was restored by Jim Prosper, whose restorations are some of the most accurate. The bike uses an original 1913 Indian frame and engine, and the bike has been museum displayed.

$52,000 (high bid) – 1931 BMW R16

Originally from the Willy Neutkens Collection of Important BMW Motorcycles, this 1931 BMW R16 was estimated to fetch between $75,000 and $100,000 but only attracted a high bid of $52,000. Still available.
Originally from the Willy Neutkens Collection of Important BMW Motorcycles, this 1931 BMW R16 was estimated to fetch between $75,000 and $100,000 but only attracted a high bid of $52,000. Still available.

Mecum Auction Page Link

Originally from the Willy Neutkens Collection of Important BMW Motorcycles, this bike was estimated to fetch between $75,000 and $100,000 but only attracted a high bid of $52,000. Still available.

$67,000 (high bid) – 1929 BMW R63

Estimated to sell for between $90,000 and $110,000, this 1929 BMW R63 attracted a high bid of just $67,000 and is still available. The R63 is very rare, as it was produced in low volume and was the first 750cc overhead valve motorcycle BMW produced. In the company's centenary year, it was an even more inexplicable result.
Estimated to sell for between $90,000 and $110,000, this 1929 BMW R63 attracted a high bid of just $67,000 and is still available. The R63 is very rare, as it was produced in low volume and was the first 750cc overhead valve motorcycle BMW produced. In the company's centenary year, it was an even more inexplicable result.

Mecum Auction Page Link

Estimated to sell for between $90,000 and $110,000, the bike attracted a high bid of just $67,000 and is still available. The R63 is very rare, as it was produced in low volume and was the first 750cc overhead valve motorcycle BMW produced. In the company's centenary year, it was an even more inexplicable result.

$79,200 – 1910 Harley-Davidson Single Belt Drive

This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.
This very early and hence rare 1910 Harley 30 ci (500cc) belt drive single came with full documentation from the Venter Collection and fetched $79,200.

Mecum Auction Page Link

A very early and hence rare Harley 30 ci (500cc) single with full documentation from the Venter Collection.

$77,500 (high bid) - 1927 BMW R47S

This very rare and very early factory 1927 BMW R47S race bike that was expected to sell in the $110,000 to $130,000 range but attracted a high bid of just $77,500 and was passed in. It is hence still available.
This very rare and very early factory 1927 BMW R47S race bike that was expected to sell in the $110,000 to $130,000 range but attracted a high bid of just $77,500 and was passed in. It is hence still available.

Mecum Auction Page Link

A very rare and very early factory race bike that was expected to sell in the $110,000 to $130,000 range but attracted a high bid of just $77,500 and was passed in. It is hence still available.

$88,000 –1912 Indian Racer

This largely original Indian board track racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint, sold for $88,000.
This largely original Indian board track racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint, sold for $88,000.

Mecum Auction Page Link

A largely original Indian racer from more than a century ago, still with the original paint.

$93,500 –1914 Flying Merkel Twin

From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!
From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested 1914 Flying Merkel Twin still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!

Mecum Auction Page Link

From 50 years in the collection of AMCA founding member and AMA Hall of Fame inductee Emmett Moore, this very original and completely unmolested century-old motorcycle still has the original tank graphics. It was expected to sell in the $150,000 to $175,000 range but hammered for $85,000, which adds up to a total $93,500 price with the buyer's premium included. What a bargain!

$104,500 – 1939 Indian Four

From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this 1939 model was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild. It fetched $104,500
From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this 1939 model was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild. It fetched $104,500

Mecum Auction Page Link

From the last year of the sporty Indian fours, this bike was sold with less than 500 miles since a complete rebuild.

$107,250 –1915 Harley-Davidson J

The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.
The Harley-Davidson Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. This 1915 model is an exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster and fetched $107,250.

Mecum Auction Page Link

The Model J was released in 1915 with a massive 37 percent power increase, a primary-case clutch and a three-speed gearbox so well engineered that it was still in use two decades later. This is a landmark model from an iconic manufacturer with an original matching Harley-Davidson factory 1915 sidecar, and it has been so spectacularly restored that the owner was invited to exhibit this machine at the Pebble Beach Concours. An exceptional example of the most coveted vintage Harley-Davidson roadster.

$110,000 –1913 Excelsior Twin

This 1913 Excelsior Twin was another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year at $110,000. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.
This 1913 Excelsior Twin was another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year at $110,000. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.

Mecum Auction Page Link

Another bike expected to sell for much more (estimated at $125,000 to $150,000) but which sold for a lot less in Monterey this year. This bike is a completely unrestored example of a 103-year-old motorcycle with no non-original parts other than consumables and perishables. Another bargain.

$133,100 –1942 Indian Four Cylinder

This beautifully restored Indian Four was the first one off the production line in the final year of Indian Four Cylinder production. It was estimated to sell for $200,000 to $250,000 but the final bid of $121,000 landed the prize, adding up to $133,100 with buyer's premium and another Monterey bargain.
This beautifully restored Indian Four was the first one off the production line in the final year of Indian Four Cylinder production. It was estimated to sell for $200,000 to $250,000 but the final bid of $121,000 landed the prize, adding up to $133,100 with buyer's premium and another Monterey bargain.

Mecum Auction Page Link

This beautifully restored Indian Four was the first one off the production line in the final year of Indian Four Cylinder production. It was estimated to sell for $200,000 to $250,000 but the final bid of $121,000 landed the prize, adding up to $133,100 with buyer's premium and another Monterey bargain.

$176,000 – 1939 Brough Superior 11-50

This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.
This 1939 Brough Superior 11-50 outfit fetched the equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.

Mecum Auction Page Link

The equal highest price paid for a motorcycle in Monterey Car Week 2016, and despite that, a bargain. Part of the Venter Collection, fully documented and the very first (Serial #101) Alpine sidecar. It was estimated to sell for between $275,000 and $350,000. More pics in the gallery.

$176,000 – 1974 Ducati 750 Superspor

With a final price of $176,000, this 1974 Ducati 750 Supersport set a new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of US$152,885 (sold for EUR114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by Ducati NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012.)
With a final price of $176,000, this 1974 Ducati 750 Supersport set a new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of US$152,885 (sold for EUR114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by Ducati NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012.)

Gooding & Company Auction Page Link

A new world record for the bike which put Ducati on the map, beating out the previous record of $152,885 (sold for €114,371) set at the Paris Retromobile auctions in February, 2013 by Artcurial and moving the 750 SS into a price bracket previously only achieved by NCR race bikes (but still well below the two Desmosedicis sold by RM in 2012).

This is the sportiest version of the original 750 Ducati, produced to celebrate the Ducati 1-2 victory of Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari in the 1972 Imola 200 Mile race. Ducati produced just 401 examples of the green-framed 72 hp Desmo 750 SS.

$190,000 (high bid) – 2014 Lotus C-0

This 2014 Lotus C-0 fetched the second highest unaccepted bid ($190,000) on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Mecum Auction Page Link
This 2014 Lotus C-0 fetched the second highest unaccepted bid ($190,000) on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Mecum Auction Page Link

Mecum Auction Page Link

The second highest unaccepted bid on a motorcycle of the Monterey Car Week and less than half it's estimated sell price of $370,000 to $450,000. One of 100, and with blistering 200 hp 1200cc KTM v-twin performance, a titanium and carbon fiber frame, and ... never ridden. Still available.

$280,000 (high bid) – 1938 Crocker Small Tank

This 1938 Crocker Small Tank was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for many a year - $280,000. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Mecum Auction Page Link
This 1938 Crocker Small Tank was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for many a year - $280,000. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Mecum Auction Page Link

Mecum Auction Page Link

This bike was passed in with what is undoubtedly the lowest high bid on a Crocker for the best part of a decade. It was estimated to sell for $300,000 to $350,000 so reserve price was only $20,000 away and the bike appeared in excellent original condition as it has been mechanically restored, but with great care taken to preserve it's patina and highly original condition. If it's still available, just remember that there are only 72 Crockers extant. Even our man at Monterey 2016, Angus MacKenzie, a car guy through and through, managed to get emotional over this bike. In need of a loving home.

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1 comment
GieseGeorge
Showing "High Bid" amounts on lots that did not meet reserves is mis-leading - we will never ever know what the last true high bid (if any) was on a lot with a reserve. This is because auctioneers frequently announce bids that simply don't exist below the reserve in an attempt to drum up interest or a real bid that might actually meet or exceed the reserve. It's very common, it's very legal and it's very misleading to those who don't know better.