More than 70 motorcycles from Billy Joel’s collection will be offered at auction on November 20–21 at Christie’s Javits Centre in New York. Every lot will be sold without reserve, setting up an unusually open contest for collectors. The line-up includes machines from BMW, Moto Guzzi, Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki and Honda, among other manufacturers.

Among the notable lots is a 1982 Ducati 900 Mike Hailwood TT Race Bike Replica. Ducati produced it to commemorate Mike Hailwood’s 1978 comeback victory, and its estimate is £11,000–£19,000. A fully restored 1975 Ducati 750 Sport is also listed, with an estimate of £18,000–£27,000. Production of the 750 Sport totalled 1,625 motorcycles.

Another lot with a personal connection is a custom-painted 1978 Triumph T140 paired with a matching custom helmet. Madison Square Garden gave the two to Joel to mark his 150th sold-out show at the venue in 2024. The estimate for the Triumph and helmet is £7,000–£11,500.

A collection with a public life

Joel has spent decades around motorcycles, using them for enjoyment as well as charity events, including breast-cancer ride-outs and support for emergency-service charities after September 11. In 2010 he opened 20th Century Motorcycles on Long Island, New York. The repair and modification shop housed, restored and displayed his collection, and remained free for the public to visit until last year. Joel has been diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, a disorder that can affect cognitive function and balance.

Selected lots will be displayed at Rockefeller Centre from October 8–12, with viewings arranged by appointment. All proceeds will go to The Joel Foundation, which supports music-education organisations in New York City. The sale therefore brings together two sides of the collection: rare motorcycles for buyers, and a charitable purpose linked to Joel’s long involvement with the scene.