Steve Mcqueen’s motorcycles restored by the renowned customizer Von Dutch will feature in Bonhams Las Vegas Auction, scheduled for January 9th. Indians and Triumphs from the King of Cool and the King of Kustom Kulture will join two pedigree racers – a rare BMW Factory Racer and Vincent Isle Of Man Winner which will be the highlight at upcoming sale. Bonhams will offer two restored Indian motorcycles formerly in the McQueen collection. The first is a 1923 Indian Big Chief with Princess Sidecar owned by McQueen and fully restored by Von Dutch specifically for him is one of the motorcycles featured.This unique 74cu (1200cc) Indian was one of the most exclusive motorcycles of its day, capable of reaching speeds of 90mph. Sold at the Steve McQueen Estate Sale in Las Vegas in 1984, this authentic, beautifully restored machine even has Von Dutch’s personalised business card lacquered into the dash of the sidecar. It will cross the block with an estimate of $50,000 – $70,000.
The second McQueen motorcycle on offer is a pristine 1935 Indian Chief, also sold at the 1984 auction. Fast, powerfull, iconic and fully documented, the rare model is expected to sell for $70,000 – $90,000.
Three Triumph motorcycles benefitting from the wholly distinct handiwork of Von Dutch will also be represented: a 1949 Triumph Thunderbird Bobber featured in the definitive book The Art of Von Dutch, a 1961 Triumph TR5C custom painted in 1966, and a 1964 Triumph TR6 that features a pioneering and signature Von Dutch custom paint job as well as several unique modifications. Each of the trio is expected to sell for in excess of $20,000.
