Shannons: rare exotica up for grabs

Serious collectors and dreamers alike will find plenty to pique their interest in the 2021 Shannons Spring Timed Online Auction, which will be held over Tuesday, August 31, to Tuesday, September 7. 

Amid the dozens of classic and collectible cars and memorabilia items on offer are 21 rare and immaculate motorcycles and one scooter, all of which any died-in-the-wool motorcyclist would be proud to call their own. 

Classy Kwakas 

Standout lots include three stunning classic Kawasakis, headed up by a 1975 Kawasaki H2C 750cc two-stroke triple. Having completed just 320 miles since its full and meticulous restoration, the ‘Widowmaker’, as the original model was known, is resplendent in period-correct Candy Purple, and is expected to fetch between $26,000 to $32,000. 

A 1974 Kawasaki H1F 500cc triple and 1978 Kawasaki KH400 triple are also on offer. 

Meanwhile Honda fans can salivate over a homologation special 1980 Honda CB1100RB-1, developed by the brand primarily for the Castrol 6 Hour production bike race. Offered with no reserve, the model is build #14 of a total of 112 ever made, and is expected to attract a price of between $30,000 to $35,000. 

And for those on an even healthier budget, the 1969 Honda CB750K0 superbike – a ‘sand cast’ example of the father of the modern superbike era – should bring between $50,000 and $60,000. It was sourced from the USA and underwent a complete restoration here in Australia from 2017. 

Remember’s Honda’s ‘maggot’? Big Red’s transverse V-twin CX500 may have had its detractors back in the day, but now turbocharged versions in good condition are in hot demand. On offer is a 1982 Honda CX500T in original condition, which is expected to bring between $14,000 and $16,000. 

Quality assortment 

There are numerous other Japanese, Brit, Italian and German classics going under the hammer, along with a lovely piece of scooter history in the form of a 1964 Lambretta Li125 ($6000 to $8000). 

So, with spring just around the corner, take a look for yourself. Click here to view the full listing, and see if there’s a spot in your shed – and room in your bank balance – for one of these lovely two-wheeled time capsules...