His bikes rock!
Legendary rocker Billy Joel’s sprawling collection of prized motorcycles will soon hit the auction block in the Big Apple — where motorheads can catch a glimpse of the rare rides.
More than 70 of the Piano Man’s classically cool motorcycles — including a Harley-Davidsons, Yamahas, and BMWs— are expected to fetch big bucks in November, according to Gooding Christie’s auction house.
“I’ve always been drawn to bikes built by people who cared about getting every detail right. I’ve loved building this collection. Now it’s someone else’s turn to hit the road,” the 77-year-old singer said in a statement.
The famously born-to-ride music icon’s cherished motorcycle collection will go to auction Nov. 20 and 21 at Javits Center with treasures, including his 1978 Triumph T140 Bonneville.
That beloved bike, which was given to Joel by Madison Square Garden for his 150th sold-out show, will be up for grabs for an estimated $15,000, according to Gooding Christie’s.
Joel’s large collection also includes a 1982 Ducati Mike Hailwood 900 and a restored 1975 Ducati 750 Sport, which a Christies spokesperson called, “one of the most beautiful motorcycles ever conceived,” and is expected to fetch around $35,000
Before the auction, New Yorkers can catch a peek at his motorcycles from Oct. 8 to 12 at the auction house’s Rockefeller Center showroom, according to a Christie’s rep.
“We are truly honored to present the Billy Joel Motorcycle Collection, and with what better location than New York City itself, a place so strongly associated with Mr. Joel and his celebrated legacy as one of the most beloved musicians of all time,” Gooding Christie’s President David Gooding said.
“Billy Joel is one of the most recognized motorcycle enthusiasts in the world and we are thrilled to be presenting his prized collection at Rétromobile NY in November.”
Proceeds from the sales will go to The Joel Foundation, a nonprofit centered on music education and the arts.
Rétromobile, a classic car show that began in Paris and is now partnering with Gooding Christie’s, is also working to auction off the Billy Joel Motorcycle Collection.
Last year, the “New York State of Mind” singer shuttered his beloved motorcycle shop on Long Island, after he was diagnosed with a brain disorder.
Joel recently underwent surgery for the disorder, normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a fluid buildup in his brain that can affect thinking, concentrating and memory.
