Billy Joel is selling more than 70 vintage bikes from his personal collection this November in New York City. The event, managed by Gooding Christie's and Rétromobile, will take place at the Javits Center.
The 70-Bike Sale at the Javits Center
The upcoming auction, scheduled for November 20 and 21, represents a significant liquidation of assets for the 77-year-old musician. According to the report, the sale is being conducted through a partnership between Gooding Christie's and Rétromobile New York Auctions. Before the main event at the Javits Center, a curated selection of the motorcycles will be available for public viewing at Christie's Rockefeller Center from October 8 through October 12.
This event is not merely a sale but a showcase of a lifelong obsession. David Gooding, President of Gooding Christie's, noted that Billy Joel is one of the most recognized motorcycle enthusiasts globally. By hosting the event in New York City, the auction house is leveraging the deep connection between the singer's celebrated legacy and his home city.
From the $35,000 Ducati 750 Sport to the MSG Triumph
The collection is diverse, spanning several decades and featuring prestigious brands such as BMW, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Moto Guzzi. As reported by the source, some of the most coveted items include a 1982 Ducati 900 Mike Hailwood replica, which is estimated to bring in between $25,000 and $35,000. Another standout is a restored 1975 Ducati 750 Sport, which is also expected to fetch approximately $35,000.
Beyond the monetary value, several bikes carry immense sentimental and historical weight.. A 1978 Triumph T140 Bonneville, which was gifted to Billy Joel by Madison Square Garden to commemorate his 150th sold-out performance, is estimated at $10,000 to $15,000. this specific lot is particularly unique because it includes a matching helmet that lists the dates of every single show Billy Joel performed at the arena.
The Legacy of 20th Century Cycles and a 1982 Crash
Billy Joel's relationship with motorcycles has been both a professional motif and a personal passion.. for 15 years, the singer operated 20th Century Cycles on Long Island, a faility that served as a service center for his bikes and a free museum for the public. However, the report notes that 20th Century Cycles closed its doors in 2025, signaling a definitive end to his era as a shop owner.
This passion has not been without risk. In 1982, Billy Joel suffered a motorcycle accident that crushed his left thumb. While the injury was severe, the singer famously downplayed the impact on his musical career, stating that he was not a classical musician like Vladimir Horowitz and that his piano technique did not suffer significantly. This intersection of danger and art is mirrored in his music, from the lyrics of "You May Be Right" to the visuals of the "Uptown Girl" music video.
What remains of the 20th Century Cycles museum?
While the auction details are comprehensive, a few specific points remain unclear. The source mentions that 20th Century Cycles functioned as a free museum, but it does not specify if any of the museum's non-motorcycle archives or memorabilia will be included in the November 20 and 21 sale. Furthermore, while the report lists several high-value Ducatis and the MSG Triumph, it does not provide the estimated values for the BMW or Harley-Davidson models in the collection.
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