Motorbike collectors will be in heaven at Bonham's, when a varied mix of over 150 classic motorcycles are brought together for the auction house's second annual collector's motorcycle sale in Stafford, UK.

Heading the collection is a rare ex-works Vincent Rapide, KAR 223, which was ridden by Arthur Merrett in the 1948 International Six Days Trial held at San Remo, Italy.

The bike has been fully-restored by its current owner, and was ridden by himto the event's 60th anniversary celebrations in 2008. Its value is estimated at £50,000-60,000.

Other distinguished lots include the 1949/50 Velocette KTT MkVIII (engine number 1069). Previously owned by the Swedish TT rider, Billy Andersson.

Since an engine rebuild in 2006 the KTT has been raced only twice and is described as in race-ready condition, with an estimate of £28,000-38,000.

Brooklands motorcycles have always been sought-after by collectors and the 1930 Cotton-Blackburne is all the more desirable for belonging to the Vintage period.

Built and raced by Francis William, it is featured in John Griffiths' book 'Historic Racing Motorcycles' and was once loaned to the Stanford Hall Museum.

The current owner bought the machine from Mr Leveson-Gower and rode it in Vintage race meetings during the late 1980s. Its book price is £25,000-35,000.

Other standout machines include a restored 1936 Norton International Model 30 (£14,000-18,000), a circa 1911 FN four-cylinder 'barn find' (£12,000-15,000) and a circa 1932 Matchless Silver Arrow offered for restoration (£4,000-6,000).

This sale also represents a mouth-watering opportunity for memorabilia collectors - with two outstanding collections on offer.

Ted Macauley was a friend of the great Mike Hailwood, as well as his biographer, and Macauley's collection some significant Hailwood-related pieces.

Memorabilia linked to other great Grand Prix riders including Kenny Roberts, Phil Read, Steve Baker, Rod Gould, Mick Grant, Roger Marshall and John Williams will also feature in his collection.

Elsewhere, a prominent private collection, the 'Phil Read Collection' includes, several Grand Prix 1st place trophies from Phil's World Championship-winning years and awards from a host of other international events, including the Isle of Man TT.

This October's event promises to be another superb Bonhams Collectors' motorcycle auction, with stunning and historic memorabilia on offer.




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