Bonhams Auctioning “Blur” Guitarist’s Motorcycles For Charity

Graham Coxon, British musician and lead guitarist for Blur, auctioning off seven of his personal motorcycles with proceeds benefitting NSPCC, the UK’s leading children’s charity. See the full press release from Bonhams below.

The motorcycles will be sold as part of Bonhams Autumn Stafford Sale, an annual event taking place at the Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show, held on 19th October 2014.

The collection stretches across the past fifty years, from a 1962 Vespa 200CC VBB (£2,000-3,000), to a 2010 Honda CB1300 Super Four (£3,000-4000).

Coxon commented: “These bikes have taken me on a lot of wonderful adventures up and down the country. As a parent, it seems fitting that they should be sold to benefit the NSPCC’s important work in supporting and protecting children all over the UK.”

The star lot of the collection, a 1968 Triumph Trophy 650, was comprehensively restored by the Bike Shed M.S, and upon completion went on to win the ‘Best Classic’ award at the 2001 NCC South Cambridgeshire Custom Show. Coxon purchased the Trophy in October 2002, and has covered only a few hundred miles since. Described as in generally excellent condition, the Triumph is available to the highest bidder, with an estimate of £6,000-8,000.

Paul Farthing, Director of Fundraising at the NSPCC, commented: “We are delighted that Graham has chosen the NSPCC to be the sole beneficiary of his exciting motorcycle auction. The money raised will help us to continue our vital work helping to protect children and prevent abuse through projects and services including ChildLine. On behalf of all the vulnerable children we work with, I would like to say a big thank you to Graham for his support.”

Ben Walker, International Director for Bonhams Collectors’ Motorcycles, said: “This is a great opportunity for fans of Graham and Blur, to not only take home an incredible piece of motorcycle machinery, but also know that the proceeds of the sale will go to a great deserving cause, the NSPCC.

“With almost 300 lots including over 170 motorcycles, this year’s Stafford sale will offer something for every enthusiast, with this particular collection adding a great charitable donation to the sale.”

The motorcycles featured in the Graham Coxon Collection include:

- 2004 Triumph Bonneville – estimated at £1,800-2,600

- 2002 BSA Regal Goldstar – estimated at £4,800-5,600

- 2010 Honda CB1300 Super Four – estimated at £3,000-4,000

- 2008 Suzuki DL1000 V-Strom – estimated at £3,000-4,000

- 1968 Triumph Trophy 650 – estimated at £6,000-8,000

- 2007 Suzuki 125CC Van Van – estimated at £800-1,200

- 1962 Vespa 200CC VBB – estimated at £2,000-3,000

For a full listing of upcoming sales, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments go to www.bonhams.com.

By Troy Siahaan