Motorcycles

Original American Crocker superbike expected to sell for $500,000+

Original American Crocker superbike expected to sell for $500,000+
If it sells, this 1936 Crocker "hemi head" will become just the fourth motorcycle and the first Crocker to sell at auction for more than $500,000
If it sells, this 1936 Crocker "hemi head" will become just the fourth motorcycle and the first Crocker to sell at auction for more than $500,000
View 70 Images
Assembled by the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina, this 1936 "Hemi Head" Crocker has engine number 36 61 8 (number #8), makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
1/70
Assembled by the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina, this 1936 "Hemi Head" Crocker has engine number 36 61 8 (number #8), makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
Only the first 23 Crocker V-twins produced had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven known to have survived.
2/70
Only the first 23 Crocker V-twins produced had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven known to have survived.
If it sells, this bike will become just the fourth motorcycle and the first Crocker to sell at auction for more than $500,000
3/70
If it sells, this bike will become just the fourth motorcycle and the first Crocker to sell at auction for more than $500,000
America's first real superbike, this bike is one of just seven "hemi head" extant Crockers and the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
4/70
America's first real superbike, this bike is one of just seven "hemi head" extant Crockers and the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
The bike is from the collection of the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina and the engine number (no. 36 61 8 - in essence, number #8) makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction. Accordingly, the 1936 Crocker is expected to become just the fourth motorcycle ever sold for more than $500,000 at auction.
5/70
The bike is from the collection of the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina and the engine number (no. 36 61 8 - in essence, number #8) makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction. Accordingly, the 1936 Crocker is expected to become just the fourth motorcycle ever sold for more than $500,000 at auction.
America's first real superbike, this bike is one of just seven "hemi head" extant Crockers and the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
6/70
America's first real superbike, this bike is one of just seven "hemi head" extant Crockers and the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
No one is quite sure how many Crocker v-twins were made between 1936 and 1942, with estimates ranging from 70 to 100 units. What is known is that only the first 23 Crocker V-twins had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven "hemi head" Crockers known to have survived.
7/70
No one is quite sure how many Crocker v-twins were made between 1936 and 1942, with estimates ranging from 70 to 100 units. What is known is that only the first 23 Crocker V-twins had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven "hemi head" Crockers known to have survived.
The bike is from the collection of the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina and the engine number (no. 36 61 8 - in essence, number #8) makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction. Accordingly, the 1936 Crocker is expected to become just the fourth motorcycle ever sold for more than $500,000 at auction.
8/70
The bike is from the collection of the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina and the engine number (no. 36 61 8 - in essence, number #8) makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction. Accordingly, the 1936 Crocker is expected to become just the fourth motorcycle ever sold for more than $500,000 at auction.
America's first real superbike, this bike is one of just seven "hemi head" extant Crockers and the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
9/70
America's first real superbike, this bike is one of just seven "hemi head" extant Crockers and the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
10/70
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
11/70
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
12/70
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
13/70
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
14/70
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
15/70
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
16/70
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
17/70
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
18/70
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
19/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
20/70
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
21/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
22/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
23/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
24/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
25/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
26/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
27/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
28/70
This Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
29/70
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
30/70
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
31/70
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
32/70
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin was sold by Bonhams for $291,000 during Monterey Car Week in 2012
33/70
This 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin was sold by Bonhams for $291,000 during Monterey Car Week in 2012
This 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin was sold by Bonhams for $291,000 during Monterey Car Week in 2012
34/70
This 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin was sold by Bonhams for $291,000 during Monterey Car Week in 2012
This 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin was sold by Bonhams for $291,000 during Monterey Car Week in 2012
35/70
This 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin was sold by Bonhams for $291,000 during Monterey Car Week in 2012
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
36/70
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
37/70
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
38/70
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
39/70
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
This 1939 Crocker "Small Tank" sold for $236,500 at Gooding & Company's October 2006 sale of the Otis Chandler Collection
40/70
This 1939 Crocker "Small Tank" sold for $236,500 at Gooding & Company's October 2006 sale of the Otis Chandler Collection
This 1939 Crocker "big twin" sold for $233,200 at Mid-America Auctions' January Las Vegas sale in 2008.
41/70
This 1939 Crocker "big twin" sold for $233,200 at Mid-America Auctions' January Las Vegas sale in 2008.
This 1941 Crocker Big Tank sold for $243,800 ay Mid-America's January Las Vegas auction in 2007
42/70
This 1941 Crocker Big Tank sold for $243,800 ay Mid-America's January Las Vegas auction in 2007
This 1941 Crocker Big Tank sold for $243,800 ay Mid-America's January Las Vegas auction in 2007
43/70
This 1941 Crocker Big Tank sold for $243,800 ay Mid-America's January Las Vegas auction in 2007
This 1941 Crocker Big Tank sold for $243,800 ay Mid-America's January Las Vegas auction in 2007
44/70
This 1941 Crocker Big Tank sold for $243,800 ay Mid-America's January Las Vegas auction in 2007
Crocker speedway bikes are even rarer than Crocker v-twins. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $151,200 at Mid-America's 2011 January Las Vegas sale.
45/70
Crocker speedway bikes are even rarer than Crocker v-twins. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $151,200 at Mid-America's 2011 January Las Vegas sale.
Crocker speedway bikes are even rarer than Crocker v-twins. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $151,200 at Mid-America's 2011 January Las Vegas sale.
46/70
Crocker speedway bikes are even rarer than Crocker v-twins. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $151,200 at Mid-America's 2011 January Las Vegas sale.
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
47/70
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
48/70
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
49/70
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
50/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
51/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
52/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
53/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
54/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
55/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
56/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
57/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
58/70
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
59/70
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
60/70
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
61/70
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
62/70
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
63/70
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
64/70
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
Albert Crocker and Paul Bigsby (pictured) collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby arguably invented the electric guitar. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's tremelo arm fitted.
65/70
Albert Crocker and  Paul Bigsby (pictured) collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby arguably invented the electric guitar. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's tremelo arm fitted.
Albert Crocker and Paul Bigsby collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby arguably invented the electric guitar. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's tremelo arm fitted.
66/70
Albert Crocker and  Paul Bigsby collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby arguably invented the electric guitar. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's tremelo arm fitted.
No one is quite sure how many Crocker v-twins were made between 1936 and 1942, with estimates ranging from 70 to 100 units. What is known is that only the first 23 Crocker V-twins had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven "hemi head" Crockers known to have survived.
67/70
No one is quite sure how many Crocker v-twins were made between 1936 and 1942, with estimates ranging from 70 to 100 units. What is known is that only the first 23 Crocker V-twins had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven "hemi head" Crockers known to have survived. 
The most recent Crocker to sell at auction was this 1938 Crocker Small Tank which sold at Mecum's Monterey auction in August, 2016 for $371,800
68/70
The most recent Crocker to sell at auction was this 1938 Crocker Small Tank which sold at Mecum's Monterey auction in August, 2016 for $371,800
The most recent Crocker to sell at auction was this 1938 Crocker Small Tank which sold at Mecum's Monterey auction in August, 2016 for $371,800
69/70
The most recent Crocker to sell at auction was this 1938 Crocker Small Tank which sold at Mecum's Monterey auction in August, 2016 for $371,800
If it sells, this 1936 Crocker "hemi head" will become just the fourth motorcycle and the first Crocker to sell at auction for more than $500,000
70/70
If it sells, this 1936 Crocker "hemi head" will become just the fourth motorcycle and the first Crocker to sell at auction for more than $500,000
View gallery - 70 images

No one is quite sure how many Crocker v-twins were made between 1936 and 1942, with estimates ranging from 70 to 100 units. What is known is that only the first 23 Crocker V-twins had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven "hemi head" Crockers known to have survived.

The bike is from the collection of the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina and the engine number (# 36 61 8 i.e. made in 1936, 61 cubic inch, number #8) makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction. Accordingly, the 1936 Crocker is expected to become just the fourth motorcycle ever sold for more than US$500,000 at auction.

No one is quite sure how many Crocker v-twins were made between 1936 and 1942, with estimates ranging from 70 to 100 units. What is known is that only the first 23 Crocker V-twins had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven "hemi head" Crockers known to have survived.
No one is quite sure how many Crocker v-twins were made between 1936 and 1942, with estimates ranging from 70 to 100 units. What is known is that only the first 23 Crocker V-twins had hemispherical heads and the bike being offered at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on 26 January, 2017 is one of just seven "hemi head" Crockers known to have survived. 

The Laws of Supply & Demand

When we first compiled our most valuable motorcycles at auction listing, we found that Vincent motorcycles were the most represented marque in the top 250 highest prices ever paid, but Brough Superior was the most plentiful brand in the top 100.

That's because of the laws of supply and demand – 3048 Brough Superiors and 6872 Vincent V-twins were made and around 1000 Brough Superiors still exist compared with an estimated 3000 Vincents.

That undersupply has elevated Brough prices above those of Vincents, but the meagre 50 extant Crockers means the relative scarcity has driven the astronomical prices they now fetch (see our list and images of the top 12 Crockers sold below) to a much higher average price than either Vincent or Brough Superior. Only the American Cyclone (seven extant) has a higher average price, with Cyclones holding first and third place on the most expensive motorcycle list.

America's first real superbike, this bike is one of just seven "hemi head" extant Crockers and the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
America's first real superbike, this bike is one of just seven "hemi head" extant Crockers and the earliest example ever offered at public auction.

The bike to be auctioned has an fascinating history, with the motor having been purchased in a collection of original Crocker parts by Wheels Through Time Museum in 2014. Motor #8 was restored just before Crocker #22 was acquired for the museum's collection which already included Crocker #113. Research showed that the cylinder heads on motors #22 and #113 had been swapped decades ago, so the museum's workshop retransplanted the original hemi-heads to engine #22, in the process making engine #113 engine original too, though it was incorrectly mated to an earlier frame. That frame was mated to engine #8, creating the bike being auction by Bonhams.

Albert Crocker and Paul Bigsby (pictured) collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby arguably invented the electric guitar. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's tremelo arm fitted.
Albert Crocker and  Paul Bigsby (pictured) collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby arguably invented the electric guitar. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's tremelo arm fitted.

Extraordinary bikes come from extraordinary people

George Brough created the legendary Brough Superior marque, though he no doubt learned the foundations of his trade from his motorcycle pioneer father, William Edward Brough, who produced Brough motorcycles from 1890. When George decided to go it alone instead of joining the family company, William wasn't pleased. He was even less enamored with George's choice of name and the inference, however true history has subsequently judged it to be.

Phil Vincent too, did not create Vincent motorcycles on his own. He purchased the name, tooling and patterns of HRD motorcycles for £450 in 1928 and had the good fortune to employ a brilliant young engineer named Phil Irving who conceived the v-twin which made the company's name.

Albert Crocker too was not alone in creating his eponymous marque, and though some dispute the contribution of his "foreman" and fellow Indian racer Paul Bigsby, there's no doubt both were blessed with a touch of genius. That's Bigsby pictured above on a Crocker.

Crocker originally worked at Aurora Automatic Machinery Company designing the legendary Thor motorcycles and was "poached" by Indian Motorcycle President Oscar Hedström and Chief Designer Charles Hendee, who he met when racing motorcycles. It was in the Indian engineering department where he first met Bigsby. Crocker and Bigsby collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby went into the music industry and created one of the first electric guitars. If they were awarding Nobel Prizes for guitars and motorcycles, Bigsby would have two. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's famous tremelo arm fitted - Hendrix, Clapton and all the guitar gods have used Paul Bigsby's creations.

Albert Crocker and Paul Bigsby collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby arguably invented the electric guitar. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's tremelo arm fitted.
Albert Crocker and  Paul Bigsby collaborated on the original Crocker speedway bikes, then the Crocker v-twins and when WW2 intervened and production ceased, Crocker went into the fledgling aerospace industry while Bigsby arguably invented the electric guitar. Our listing of the world's most valuable guitars contains dozens of guitars with Bigsby's tremelo arm fitted.

Like many "artists", which Albert Crocker most certainly was, his focus on the business side of things was less than perfect, and he was somewhat tardy in numbering his motorcycles sequentially, which is one of the reasons we have engine numbers ranging well past 120, but less than 100 motorcycles produced. Crocker was more interested in engineering excellence and manufacturing superior motorcycles than mundane documentation. Crocker built almost everything in-house, including carburetors, with only items such as magnetos, spark plugs, wheel rims and tires being "bought in".

Assembled by the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina, this 1936 "Hemi Head" Crocker has engine number 36 61 8 (number #8), makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction.
Assembled by the Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum in North Carolina, this 1936 "Hemi Head" Crocker has engine number 36 61 8 (number #8), makes it the earliest example ever offered at public auction.

This motorcycle stands testimony to his capabilities and as the auction description states, "the engine could produce 60 horsepower and attain speeds of 110 mph" and was "designed to withstand the force from a 200 horsepower motor." Albert Crocker was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998.

Just as you can buy a modern replica Brough Superior or a remanufactured Vincent, you can now also buy a Crocker Replica brand new, though the few authentic Crockers that remain cost considerably more to buy. In 1997 the new Crocker Motorcycle Company commenced production of Crocker components for the restoration market. The parts were received enthusiastically enough to prompt incorporation of a new company in January 1999. Using many of the old-school fabrication technologies, the Crocker Motorcycle Company set about re-creating all Crocker components such that new Crocker Big Tank and Small Tank motorcycles could be assembled, resulting in remarkable recreations of the originals. Crocker began taking orders for its very limited production in 2012 and now builds complete Crocker motorcycles to customer specifications just as Albert Crocker and Paul Bigsby did eight decades ago.

The Top 12 most valuable Crockers

Prior to the inclusion of a Crocker (the 1939 Crocker Small Tank owned by Otis Chandler - #8 on the list below) in the Guggenheim Museum's The Art of the Motorcycle Exhibition in 1998, the Crocker marque had faded into obscurity and was only known to the most hardcore of enthusiasts and many a Crocker sold for chump change during the 1980s and 1990s. Despite the Guggenheim's motorcycle exhibition being the most popular exhibit ever staged there, the single event that appears to have changed the brand's fortunes was Jared Zaug's 2006 Legend of the Motorcycle Concours d'Elegance where Crocker was one of the featured marques and 20 Crockers were gathered in one place. Several notable Crocker motorcycles changed hands privately during that event, and from that point forward, Crocker prices have climbed relentlessly to make it one of the most expensive motorcycle marques in the world.

1 – 1942 Crocker Big Tank | $385,000

This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.
This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque.

Sold: March, 2015,Las Vegas | Mecum

This 1942 Crocker V Twin was estimated to fetch between $300,000 to $350,000 at Mecum's E.J. Cole Collection auction in March, 2015. It sold for $385,000, setting a new record for the marque. See image gallery for detail images and auction links.

2 – 1938 Crocker "Small Tank" | $371,800

The most recent Crocker to sell at auction was this 1938 Crocker Small Tank which sold at Mecum's Monterey auction in August, 2016 for $371,800
The most recent Crocker to sell at auction was this 1938 Crocker Small Tank which sold at Mecum's Monterey auction in August, 2016 for $371,800

Sold: August 2016, Monterey | Mecum

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

3 – 1939 Crocker "Big Tank" twin| $302,500

Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.
Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this 1939 Crocker Big Tank V-Twin was sold by RM Auctions (now RM-Sotheby's) as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection for $302,500.

Sold: June, 2008, California | RM-Sothebys

Sold by RM as part of Joe MacPherson's (of Joe's Garage fame) collection, this Crocker was the star of the show at the 2008 sale and became the most valuable Crocker ever to sell at auction at the time when it fetched US$302,500.

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

4 – 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" | $302,000

This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This 1940 Crocker "Big Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.

Sold: August, 2012, Monterey | Bonhams

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

4 – 1937 Crocker "Small Tank" twin| $302,000

This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.
This Crocker "Small Tank" was sold for $302,000 by Bonhams during Monterey Car Week in 2012.

Sold: August, 2012, Monterey | Bonhams

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

6 – 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin| $291,000

This 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin was sold by Bonhams for $291,000 during Monterey Car Week in 2012
This 1937 Crocker 'Small Tank' twin was sold by Bonhams for $291,000 during Monterey Car Week in 2012

Sold: August, 2012, Monterey | Bonhams

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

7 – 1937 Crocker "Hemi-Head" | $276,500

This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006
This 1937 Crocker 'Hemi-Head' came from the Silverman Museum was sold by Bonhams for $276,500 in November, 2006

Sold: November 2006,Los Angeles | Bonhams

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

8 – 1941 Crocker Big Tank| $243,800

This 1941 Crocker Big Tank sold for $243,800 ay Mid-America's January Las Vegas auction in 2007
This 1941 Crocker Big Tank sold for $243,800 ay Mid-America's January Las Vegas auction in 2007

Sold: January 2007, Las Vegas | Mecum

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

9 – 1939 Crocker "Small Tank" twin| $236,500

This 1939 Crocker "Small Tank" sold for $236,500 at Gooding & Company's October 2006 sale of the Otis Chandler Collection
This 1939 Crocker "Small Tank" sold for $236,500 at Gooding & Company's October 2006 sale of the Otis Chandler Collection

Sold: October 2006, Los Angeles | Gooding and Co.

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

10 – 1939 Crocker V-Twin Big Twin | $233,200

This 1939 Crocker "big twin" sold for $233,200 at Mid-America Auctions' January Las Vegas sale in 2008.
This 1939 Crocker "big twin" sold for $233,200 at Mid-America Auctions' January Las Vegas sale in 2008.

Sold: January 2008, Las Vegas | Mecum

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

11 – 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike | $159,500

The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.
The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, just 31 Crocker speedway bikes were built before Crocker turned to the v-twins which made him a global name. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $159,500 at Mecum's sale of the EJ Cole Collection in March, 2015.

Sold: March 2015, Las Vegas | Mecum

The precursor to the famous Crocker v-twin, Albert Crocker built just 31 speedway bikes before turning his hand to the bikes which made him a global name. This is one of them, and not surprisingly, they don't appear at auction very often.

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

12 – 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike| $151,200

Crocker speedway bikes are even rarer than Crocker v-twins. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $151,200 at Mid-America's 2011 January Las Vegas sale.
Crocker speedway bikes are even rarer than Crocker v-twins. This 1934 Crocker Speedway Bike sold for $151,200 at Mid-America's 2011 January Las Vegas sale.

Sold: January 2011, Las Vegas | Mecum

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

13 – 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion | $93,600

This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.
This 1929 Indian-Crocker Overhead-Valve Conversion was sold in May 2007 for $93,600 by Bonhams at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction. It went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.

Sold: May, 2007, Monterey | Bonhams

Detail images and auction links in image gallery.

We had to throw this one into the mix because it is such a wonderful example of the OHV conversions which Crocker created before turning his hand to entire motors and motorcycles. This price was achieved a decade ago at the Legend of the Motorcycle Auction however the same machine went to auction again at Bonhams' 2016 Las Vegas Motorcycle sale but failed to meet reserve.

View gallery - 70 images
9 comments
9 comments
possum1
You also need to mention Crocker's advertising - Albert is supposed to have offered to refund the purchase price of the bike, if the owner was ever beaten in a race with a Harley ! There are no recorded refunds ! Bevel drive too, beats Ducati by 30 odd years !
Grunchy
Not one of these is any good at all, they are merely scarce and that's it. I'm not interested enough to read the article or even look at the pictures. My neighbor has a clapped out big bore Suzuki probably superior to all these bikes that she's trying to flog for $300, and no takers, so, whatever.
TomFullery
Grunchy, perhaps you could explain why people (many of them miserable gits, presumably) go to the trouble of posting comments on articles they are not interested in, and haven't even read? Surely the rational response to an article in which you are not at all interested would be to, well, ignore it altogether? It must be exhausting scanning websites for articles that you are not interested in, and then writing posts about why they are not interesting. I suggest you buy a pair of shoes and go for a walk.
DavidRogerBrown
Totally agree with you Tom. Mike Hanlon has done a fantastic with "New Atlas" with bringing in excellent writers like Loz. Especially enjoy their professional opinions on motorcycles models & history. That's just a tip of the iceberg with articles of every interest and subject. One gets so tired of the continuous negative comments by those that quickly show their ignorance of the subject. So Mike,as a daily rider (weather permitting in Mt.) for over 50 years,thanks for the great daily "magazine." They're are those out here that have appreciated your work & writing.
strickland
Skelton had the Bigsby drawings which means there is no such thing as "NOS parts". If there was such a large quantity of NOS parts, why did Skelton have the need to borrow the drawings in the first place, from Murray Looper ? Elmo Looper only owned 3 Crocker's and those went to his brother Murray. Elmo did not buy an inventory of parts from Al Crocker. Al gave the drawings to Elmo. The inventory is stored on every page. Harry Sucher did not mention where the drawings came from, just that Skelton had possession = 9 / 10 of the law and they were never returned to Murray. Murrays name is not mentioned in the acknowledgement page in 'Iron Redskin'. In the 1936 Motorcyclist mag, Al said there was 12 motors built for 1936, not 14. The Crocker Register is worthless but it does have names and Engine stamps, it does not record how many replicas were made or the original 35 survivors. Also the Crocker 41-' Scootabout' was released late 1940 when production and retooling shifted. This is printed in Motorcyclist ,popular science and popular mechanics. Paul Bigsby said there was 64 bikes built not 72 or 76 or 104
strickland
Who said the first 23 bikes had Hemi heads ? Homer Wood said he swapped heads on his 36-61-4 in September 1937, the 9th month. The myth of the 1936 production run of 14 bikes + 9 = 23. Al Crocker was one of Indian's top dealers, in most old Adverts, Kansas city is listed. The only thing Tardy about the Engine number system is the keepers of the Crocker Register. When Al Crocker started working for Indian San Francisco, Paul Bigsby was 13 years old and living in LA.
strickland
Crocker's were only offered at 61" , $480 and $5 paint option. Elmo Looper was the only guy with Stroker engines, that is the only reason he was at the factory. Harley con rods are only used in restoration replicas, polishing a rod does not hide the identity of rod length as being HD. No HD historian is going to support the story of HD parts going into engines. Crocker's did not use stroker plates. The Bigsby drawings had examples of parts that never went into production, good examples are in above photos, the lever seat , the tail light, the tool box. There is no evidence of any bikes built in 1941 and 1942, the Scooter went into production in 1940 after Sam Parriott ran the last races at Muroc. Motorcyclist magazine is 1000 times more accurate than anything Chuck Vernon preached, no one dared to question his tales
strickland
Skelton gained possession of the Bigsby drawings giving him legal ownership of the intellectual property of Al Crocker. He had every right to manufacture "NOS" parts and motorcycles without royalties and answer to no one. A vehicle register is supposed to be based on existing engine numbers, not the other way around. It is unknown how many dozens of replicas he and his crew had built, but He also created the Crocker register which records every ones names. It went from 30 odd to 48, to 72 and today its 76 numbers. Promoting a Vehicle as genuine when it is a replica is called FRAUD especially when its large money. Jack Lilly's credibilty went out the window in Wild ones book, he refers to Alfred Crocker 3 times and said he and Von Dutch worked at the Crocker factory. Fact check Von Dutch was born 1929, he was 11yrs old in 1940. The Green Booze fighter bike is a Bogus Ernie Skelton replica, take a close look at the stroker plates under the cylinders, it has HD rods and pistons. The Elmo Looper/ Art Smythe bike is also BOGUS, the Looper family have never heard of Art Smythe and also there was o such thing as a lever seat mechanism. That 1941 bike above also fell out of a tree, there are at least 6 duds on this page
strickland
In the 1936 'The Motorcyclist' mag, Crocker said "Twelve motors" were going through production. The 2010 Crocker Register has twelve engine stamps listed, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 36-61-25, not including 3 and Chuck Vernon's 36-61-1X, (that makes FOURTEEN). Like Harry Sucher said in Iron Redskin page 296. "gives the make the highest survival rate of any of the old time classics!" but he wrote that in 1977 not 2010, he died 2009. = That is incredible survival rate of any vehicle let alone the auction house favorite