Hold onto your handlebars: the world of motorcycles just got shaken up by a historic record. The most expensive motorcycle ever sold has found a new home—a 1915 Cyclone V-Twin just went under the hammer for a jaw-dropping $1.32 million at a Mecum auction in Las Vegas, setting a new benchmark for two-wheeled treasures!
An Unassuming Legend
At first glance, the Cyclone V-Twin probably won’t give most people goosebumps. Sporting a two-cylinder 996cc engine capable of producing 45 horsepower, lacking a front brake, and featuring nothing more than a suspended saddle, it may strike you as almost rustic—or as a daredevil’s minimalist dream. However, hidden beneath this barebones exterior lies something far more electrifying than mere appearances: a genuine piece of history.
The Roots of Rarity: Born in Minnesota
This model comes from an era when motorcycles were closer to mechanical marvels than luxury collectibles. The Cyclone V-Twin was produced by the Joerns Motor Manufacturing Company in Minnesota, with manufacturing spanning from 1912 to 1917. Rarity is an understatement here: fewer than 300 units were made—a number that instantly makes the heart of any collector skip a beat. Despite its grand age of 110 years, this particular bike has seen a full restoration, preserving its innovative design that was truly ahead of its time back in the day.
Not Just Old—A Racing Titan
The Cyclone V-Twin didn’t just cruise through history at a slow roll; it thundered across the racing scene, outpacing even giants like Harley-Davidson and Indian. This was a motorcycle built for domination, brandishing progressive design and surprising power for its era. It’s no wonder, then, that it’s become such a coveted prize among collectors worldwide.
- 996cc V-twin engine
- 45 horsepower, no front brake
- Suspended saddle, vintage flair
- Produced in fewer than 300 examples
Over the years, both riders and collectors have continued to invest in these rare pieces. Yet, the sale of a 1915 bike for more than $1.3 million is nothing short of extraordinary—a detail that ensures the Cyclone V-Twin a spot in the annals of auction history.
Beyond Function: Motorcycling as Art
When a motorcycle commands a price of this magnitude, it’s clear we’re well beyond the realm of specs and technical prowess. What’s on offer isn’t just performance, but a true work of art on two wheels—a storyteller narrating the rich legacy of the motorcycle industry, with all its dreams, aspirations, and bold breakthroughs. The value of a motorcycle proves to be tied not only to its rideability but, perhaps more importantly, to its historical roots and the mark it has left on motorcycle culture.
If you ever come across a motorcycle this rare, prepare to see it in an entirely different light. The Cyclone V-Twin, with its unmistakably retro design and legendary heritage, stands as a brilliant example of how innovation can outlast trends, only growing in value as decades roll by. A final thought for all dreamers and collectors: sometimes, true innovation is measured not by speed or power, but by the timeless story a machine carries through the ages.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
