The 1915 Cyclone V-Twin, a motorcycle used in dangerous races of the time, made history when it was auctioned for $1.32 million on February 1, 2025, becoming the first motorcycle to exceed the $1 million mark at an auction.
The model was part of the collection of businessman Urban S. Hirsch III, who accumulated about 120 rare motorcycles throughout his life. He built his fortune in the printing industry, but his true passion was motorcycles, and the Cyclone V-Twin was one of his most valuable pieces.
The Cyclone V-Twin stood out in the “Board Track Racing” events, which took place on wooden oval tracks in the United States in the 1910s. With a 996 cc V-Twin engine and a top speed of over 160 km/h, it was one of the most powerful bikes of the time. However, due to numerous fatal accidents, this form of racing was banned, and the manufacturer Joerns Motor Co. ceased production of the model in 1917.
Today, it is estimated that only five units of the racing version have survived, making the bike auctioned a rare find. Interestingly, its commercial version only cost $350 back then.
Despite the auction record, the most expensive motorcycle ever made is the 2008 Neiman Marcus Limited Edition Fighter, which had an initial price tag of $11 million. Produced in a limited edition of only 45 units, it combines premium materials such as carbon fiber and titanium, along with advanced features including traction control and adjustable suspension. With a 1,996 cm³ engine producing 120 horsepower, this motorcycle can reach impressive speeds of 305 km/h.
Source: Olhar Digital | Photo: X @mecum | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team