Minibikes Draw Maxi-Attention at Barrett-Jackson Auction

Barrett-Jackson Auction
This Honda CB175 was one of many small-displacement bikes sold at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, January 22-30, 2022. Photos by the author.

The Barrett-Jackson automobile auction is an annual extravaganza with a major stop staged at Westworld in Scottsdale, Arizona, January 22-30, 2022. This year’s 50th anniversary iteration was a sensory overload of rare, antique, classic, and exotic cars and trucks. However, there was also a shiny, tidy collection of motorcycles at the expansive event.

Rare vintage motorcycles, classic dirtbikes, and moto-themed art and memorabilia were all featured. However, by far the largest representation of motorcycle history was of the minibike variety. Based on the fan and bidder attention that the large stable of minis garnered, car enthusiasts have a serious soft spot (and deep pockets) for the little rides of their youth.

Barrett-Jackson Auction
Classic dirtbikes like this 1978 Yamaha YZ125 were hot sellers at the auction.

The Hondas of the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s made up the lion’s share of the minbike contingent at the auction. Dozens of diminutive Z50s, step-through Trail 90s, and the once ubiquitous CT70s were offered in both original form and correctly restored examples. The “you meet the nicest people on a Honda” advertising slogan from the bellbottom era has clearly transcended to a modern movement of sentimentality and financial means.

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So what did the small-displacement Honda bikes garner at the Barrett-Jackson auction? Here is just a sampling.

1969 Honda Z50 – $6,600
1970 Honda CT90 – $6,600
1971 Honda Trail CT70 – $11,000
1972 Honda Trail CT70 – $7,150
1977 Honda CT70 – $6,050
1986 Honda Z50RD – $13,200

Barrett-Jackson Auction
This 1948 Indian Chief sold for $57,200.

Other notable sales:
1948 Indian Chief – $57,200
1971 Triumph T120-R with Sidecar – $9,900
1971 Rupp Scrambler – $7700
1976 Montesa 247 Cota – $4,950

Barrett-Jackson Auction

1 COMMENT

  1. Really enjoyed seeing the bikes of my youth.
    Some I even forgot I owned and rode!
    Would love to see more. 50 years & countless machines later I miss the old days and bikes you could actually maintain and repair in your garage with coming tools.
    (I wonder where my Whitworth tools got to?)
    Thanks for the memories,
    Chaplain Bob

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