Major motorcycle collection to be auctioned

Aussie motorsport legend Bryan Thomson may be best known for the Chev V8-powered VW Type 3 Sports Sedan he raced in the 1970s, but he has racing history on two wheels, too.

Like most racers of his vintage, Thomson started in grasstrack while still a teenager, before graduating to tarmac, then four wheels in 1959. A Vincent Rapide and Velocette MAC 350 were amongst his steeds back then, with an example of the latter amongst a varied collection that is being auctioned by Donington Auctions this Sunday, 20 June.

Motorcycles make up the bulk of the lots on offer from Thomson’s collection, covering new and old, road and off-road models, along with rarities and a few quirky choices. Some of the bikes have been in Thomson’s possession for more than four decades and most are in outstanding condition.

Amongst the 19 motorcycles up for grabs, here are a few of the highlights.

1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana – rare wire-wheel model and bought new by Thomson 40 years ago. Although never registered, the bike was ridden on permits and dealer plates for a selection of events, including Ulysses Club rallies. Sold unregistered. $30,000-$40,000 estimate.

1982 Hesketh Vampire – the first production example V1000, purchased by Thomson in 1995. Includes spare fuel tank, new mufflers and pre-E10 upgrade parts. Low mileage, super-rare bike in outstanding condition. $85,000-$95,000 estimate.

1996 Ducati 916 Biposto – iconic 1990s superbike, delivered new in Victoria via WA importer, purchased by Thomson in approx. 1999. Ridden occasionally, including down to Phillip Island for Aus MotoGP, low kms (8,670km), with sales documents service book and manual included. $18,000-$24,000 estimate.

1956 Velocette MAC 350 - one of only 129 swingarm models imported to Australia in the 1950s, purchased by Thomson in 2001 from a fellow enthusiast and used regularly until 2018. Needs some minor mechanical refurbishment. Unregistered. $11,000-$15,000 estimate.

1974 Yamaha TZ750A – iconic road race bike, made up of an authentic frame, mostly authentic engine and NOS, used, and some reproduction parts from numerous sources following four years searching. After testing, it was put into dry storage until Barry Ditchburn had it recently recommissioned and dyno tested at 92hp. $55,000-$65,000 estimate.

For more details on Donington Auctions 20 June auction, go to: doningtonauctions.com.au