The regular marques are the ones collectors know: Triumph, Norton, BSA and Vincent on the British side, with Honda and Yamaha among the Japanese classics. The strongest demand at the moment is for the later classics from the 1970s onwards, in line with what today's collectors are after, though a desirable machine of any era still sells strongly: a 1956 998cc JMC Norvin sold here for £35,000.
Buying a classic or vintage motorcycle
Each catalogue goes online ahead of the sale with descriptions and photographs, and you can bid in the room, by phone or online. With an older machine, originality and condition decide the value, so view in person where you can, check what is original and what has been replaced, and look over the paperwork before you bid. The buyer's premium on motorcycle lots is 10% plus VAT, so factor that in when you set your limit.
Selling a motorcycle or a collection
A single motorcycle, or a small group, is entered into the Cambridge Vintage Sale, in front of buyers across the UK and overseas. A larger collection can also be sold on-site, where the machines form part of a wider dispersal.
Pre-sale appraisals are free, with formal written valuations arranged separately. Tom Godsmark ANAVA and Ted Shepherd look after the classic and vintage side, and can value a motorcycle and advise on the right route, whether it is one machine or a collection.
Why Cheffins for motorcycles?
Cheffins has been an auctioneer and valuer since 1825 and has sold motorcycles for many years, from restoration projects to machines worth £40,000 and more, at fees that sit well below those of many specialist rooms. With around 30,000 registered bidders in more than 50 countries behind the sale, a good motorcycle with the right history sells well, whoever is bidding on the day.
Classic and vintage motorcycle auction FAQs
Where can I buy classic and vintage motorcycles at auction in the UK?
Motorcycles sell through the Cambridge Vintage Sale, the collective auction held three times a year at Sutton, near Ely. You can bid in the room, by phone or online, and registration is free.
How do I sell my classic motorcycle or collection?
A single motorcycle suits the Cambridge Vintage Sale, while a larger collection can be sold on-site as part of a wider dispersal. Pre-sale appraisals are free, and Tom Godsmark and Ted Shepherd can advise on the right route.
What motorcycle marques does Cheffins sell?
Regular marques include Triumph, Norton, BSA and Vincent, alongside Japanese classics from Honda and Yamaha, spanning early veteran and pre-war machines through to late-1970s and beyond.
What is the buyer's premium on motorcycle lots?
The premium on motorcycle lots is 10% plus VAT. Check the payment and collection terms for the specific sale before you bid.
Related sections
Classic Cars · Automobilia & Petroliana · Trucks & Commercial Vehicles · Vintage Tractors · Vintage & Classic Auctions · Cambridge Machinery Sales · On-site Auctions · Machinery & Vintage Auctions
Ready to buy or sell a motorcycle?
Browse the next Cambridge Vintage Sale, or call the vintage team on 01353 777767 (option 2) or email [email protected] to talk through selling a single motorcycle or a collection.