Captain America chopper is top bike at Burns & Co. auction

At their Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle Auction this past March, Burns & Co. offered a wide range of cars and motorcycles, including some rare, unusual and highly desirable models.

Of the selection of two-wheel machines up for grabs, highlights included a 1973 Kawasaki H1, 1996 Ducati 916, 2004 Ducati 999S and a 1978 BMW R100S. The auction also featured a rare, Australian-made Invincible JAP from the 1920s that was unrestored, but had been recently returned to running condition. However, the real head turner was a nicely presented replica of the ‘Captain America’ chopper ridden by Wyatt (Peter Fonda) in the 1969 counterculture cinema classic, Easy Rider.

Built around a genuine 1962 Harley Davidson panhead v-twin and a frame from D&D Cycle in California, this replica was fitted with rare period parts, like a mousetrap clutch and ‘dog bone’ risers for the ape hanger handlebars. Movie bike features, like the extreme rake, fishtail mufflers, ‘king and queen’ seat and ‘stars and stripes’ fuel tank were all accurately reproduced. Same goes for the absence of a front brake and speedometer, which while authentic for a Captain America chopper, means in cannot be registered for road use in Australia.

Built in the USA, this replica was apparently ridden only once after the build, then drained of all fluids and used as a display item. The engine was turned over regularly, though, so it could be returned to running condition with minimal effort.

Imported into Australia from Louisiana in 2010, this Captain America tribute has served as a display bike here, too, and came to auction in very good condition, with a matching ‘stars and stripes’ helmet included.  

Offered without a reserve price, strong bidding on this chopper at the live auction on 16 March saw it hammer for $47,250. With the buyer’s premium included, this took the final price to $53,156 and made it the top-selling motorcycle at the auction. Next best was the Ducati 916, which sold for $28,125 (including buyer’s premium).

For more details on this auction and other upcoming Burns & Co. auctions, go to: burnsandcoauctions.com.au