Revving Back the Clock: Classic Bikes Make a Comeback in the Bay Area.
Revving Back the Clock: Classic Bikes Make a Comeback in the Bay Area.
by david news 14 october 2024
Vintage motorcycles, from British Triumphs to prewar Harley-Davidsons, are surging in popularity and value. The Bay Area’s passion for nostalgia is bringing these classics back on the road.
There’s a growing trend among Bay Area riders: the return of classic bikes. Whether it’s a perfectly restored Triumph Bonneville or a rugged, prewar Harley-Davidson, these machines are becoming prized possessions for enthusiasts looking to relive the golden days of motorcycling. In fact, prices for fully restored models have skyrocketed—some seeing a 10.1% increase in value over the last year(Hagerty).
What’s driving this nostalgia? Part of it is the unique charm of these machines; the sound, the feel, and even the quirks make them stand out compared to today’s tech-heavy models. Local shops in San Francisco and Oakland are capitalizing on this trend, offering restoration services and meetups where riders show off their prized classics.
British brands, in particular, are seeing renewed interest. Norton Commandos and Triumph Tridents have spiked in value as more riders look for these iconic models to add to their collection(Hagerty).And let’s not forget the art appeal—prewar Harleys and Indian motorcycles are increasingly seen as rolling sculptures.
So if you’re a Bay Area rider with a love for history, now might be the perfect time to hunt down that vintage gem. And if you already own one, you’re sitting on a piece of two-wheeled art.