Bonhams Online Motorcycle Auctions Explained
Bonhams now runs three annual online motorcycle auctions alongside its traditional physical sales. The process allows for in-person viewing and remote bidding, with recent results showing strong global interest and values broadly aligned with live auctions.
Bonhams, a major auction house for vintage and classic motorcycles, now stages three online sales each year. The process begins with potential buyers registering on the Bonhams website to book a viewing slot at its Milton Keynes headquarters.
Viewing days offer a relaxed, personal inspection of the bikes and spares. Experts are available to answer questions. Once the auction opens online, bids are submitted via a button. Bidders can place a maximum bid, allowing the system to increment automatically, or they can watch live and bid manually.
From a seller's perspective, the online process is similar to a physical auction. Details are discussed, estimates agreed, and the bike is delivered to Milton Keynes. The machine is held there until the sale concludes and the new owner collects it.
The Pros and Cons of Each Format
A physical auction is an exciting event. The atmosphere is immersive, with adrenaline flowing as lots come up. It feels like an occasion. But it has drawbacks. You have only about two-and-a-half minutes to decide. The hammer price excludes fees, requiring careful budget calculation. Travel can be costly, and you must quickly arrange transport for a won bike.
Online auctions offer convenience. You can bid from anywhere. Viewing is more relaxed. However, you miss the event atmosphere. Remote bidding carries the anxiety of relying on technology to be available at the exact right moment.
Comparing Auction Prices
Comparing prices between online and physical auctions is tricky, as values fluctuate. However, a look at Bonhams' Stafford auction and its summer 2025 online sale suggests values are broadly aligned. Here is a comparison of some similar machines from the source report.
| Model | Sale Format | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1962 Triumph Tiger Cub | Online | £1495 |
| 1962 Triumph Tiger Cub | Stafford | £1265 |
| 1929 Brough Superior 680 project | Online | £33,280 |
| 1928 Brough Superior | Stafford | £34,500 |
| 1974 Ducati 750 GT | Online | £19,550 |
| 1974 Ducati 750 GT (yellow) | Stafford | £13,225 |
| 1929 Big 4 with Model 18 engine | Online | £8050 |
| 1930 Model 18 | Stafford | £8625 |
| 1977 T140 Bonneville (UK-spec) | Online | £3450 |
| 1978 T140 Bonneville (US-spec) | Stafford | £3450 |
Highlights from the Winter 2025 Sale
The top lots in Bonhams' December 2025 online auction were three fire-damaged V-twins from the estate of Alain de Cadenet. A 1954 Vincent Black Shadow fetched £69,000. A 1972 Ducati 750 Sport, which may have been a rare 'Z-stripe' model, also sold for £69,000. Its paperwork was destroyed, but its numbers checked out.
The third bike was a 1972 Ducati 750SS. It had been raced by Charlie Sanby in the 1974 and 1975 Isle of Man TTs, finishing 12th and 20th respectively. It sold for £92,000 including the buyer's premium.
Breaking the V-twin trend, a Honda RC30 sold for £34,500. Another Brough Superior 680 project made £33,280. An unusual 1898 MMC Werner, with its engine mounted above the front wheel, fetched £17,250. Bonhams noted renewed strength in the market for early veteran motorcycles.
The sale was not focused only on high-end machines. Many affordable machines, spares, and projects were sold. Of 166 lots offered, 164 sold, realising £602,000. This total exceeded the £275,000 low estimate. Bidders from 28 countries participated, making it Bonhams' largest online motorcycle sale of 2025.
