Musical icon Billy Joel is all set to part with his motorcycle collection. The singer, who is known for being a big vehicle buff beyond his musical prowess, is planning to auction more than 70 motorcycles from his vintage collection for auction. Joel built the collection over the past 58 years.
Billy Joel to auction off his motorcycle collection
Billy Joel is auctioning off around 70 of his vintage motorcycles, according to the Gooding Christie’s official webpage. The announcement revealed that as part of the auction house’s first consignment, Joel’s motorcycle collection will be sold off on November 20 and 21 during the Rétromobile New York Auctions.Billy Joel issues his own statement on why he is parting with his massive collection. He shared, “I’ve always been drawn to bikes built by people who cared about getting every detail right. I’ve loved building this collection. Now it’s someone else’s turn to hit the road.”The collection from his own private archive features some of the most unique motorcycles in the industry, including a 1978 Triumph T140 Bonneville, a 1982 Ducati Mike Hailwood 900, and a 1975 Ducati 750 Sport. In an official statement, the auction house’s president, David Gooding, said, “We are truly honoured to present the Billy Joel Motorcycle Collection, and with what better location than New York City itself, a place so strongly associated with Mr Joel and his celebrated legacy as one of the most beloved musicians of all time?”The report also revealed that the proceeds earned from the auction will all go towards his foundation. As for his collection, it will also feature the iconic custom-painted 1978 Triumph T140 Bonneville that costs somewhere around USD 10,000 – USD 15,000. The bike had been gifted to the ‘Piano Man’ singer by Madison Square Garden following his 150th sold-out show at the venue. The bike also came with a specialised helmet that had all of the shows and their dates written on it.The collection will also have one of his most expensive motorbikes as well, the 1975 Ducati 750 Sport, which is estimated to cost around USD 25,000 – USD 35,000, without reserve.
Billy Joel’s motorcycle collection museum and shop
The motorcycle enthusiast also used to own his own shop that doubled as a museum to put his vintage collection on display. For the past 15 years, Joel had his own shop, called the 20th Century Cycles on Long Island, open. The space was meant to store and service his bikes. However, the space also doubled as a free space to showcase his collection. Joel operated the shop until last year, when it was officially closed down.
