Motorcycle enthusiasts and fans of Billy Joel will be in for a treat as the musician’s impressive collection of over 70 motorcycles heads to auction this November. Set to take place on the 20th and 21st at the Javits Center in New York City, the Rétromobile New York Auctions will see this revered collection presented without reserve by Gooding Christie’s, the official auction house of the event.
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Announced on September 28, the sale marks a significant moment, as it features the first major consignment of Joel’s prized motorcycles. The auction promises to be a highlight for both motorcycle aficionados and music fans alike, as it brings together two realms that Joel holds dear.
Before the auction itself, selected motorcycles from Joel’s collection will be showcased at Christie’s Rockefeller Center from October 8 to 12, allowing bidders an early glimpse of these iconic machines. Interested parties are encouraged to schedule viewing appointments with the auction house ahead of time to secure their visit.
In a statement expressing his passion for motorcycles, Joel, who is now 77, commented, “I’ve always been drawn to bikes built by people who cared about getting every detail right. I’ve loved building this collection. Now it’s someone else’s turn to hit the road.” His enthusiasm for motorcycling is evident, reflected in the variety and quality of bikes on offer.
The collection encompasses various renowned brands, including Ducati, BMW, Moto Guzzi, Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, Triumph, Honda, and Kawasaki. A significant highlight is a custom-painted 1978 Triumph T140 Bonneville, valued between £10,000 and £15,000. This particular bike was a gift from Madison Square Garden, commemorating Joel’s 150th sold-out performance at the venue. Accompanying the motorcycle is a matching helmet featuring a record of every show he performed there.
Also featured in the auction is a 1982 Ducati 900 Mike Hailwood Replica, estimated to fetch between £15,000 and £25,000. This motorcycle is a tribute to Mike Hailwood, who famously rode it to victory at the 1978 Isle of Man. Another notable entry is the 1975 Ducati 750 Sport, which comes with a value estimate of £25,000 to £35,000.
Notably, the proceeds from the auction will benefit Joel’s humanitarian initiative, The Joel Foundation, which aims to harness the power of music to inspire and educate students and communities. Gooding Christie’s president David Gooding expressed his honour in presenting the collection, highlighting the special connection between Joel and New York City. “Billy Joel is one of the most recognized motorcycle enthusiasts in the world,” stated Gooding, emphasising the significance of the auction.
Recently, Joel has had to grapple with health challenges. In August 2025, it was reported that his motorcycle shop, 20th Century Cycles, located in Oyster Bay, New York, would close as he opted not to renew his lease. This decision followed a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition that prompted Joel to consider downsizing his assets.
In a candid update shared earlier this month on SiriusXM’s The Billy Joel Channel, Joel discussed how he first noticed issues with his balance, leading to the diagnosis after a fall during a concert. He described how doctors recommended a shunt procedure, originally daunting to him but ultimately proved beneficial. Joel stated, “It can help improve your balance and can help your memory. You know, I don’t want to lose my marbles,” noting that following the procedure, his balance and overall well-being had improved.
As the auction dates draw near and excitement builds around the motorcycles, fans and collectors anticipate what promises to be a remarkable event, blending Billy Joel’s musical legacy with his passion for motorcycling. With both local and international bidding anticipated, the sale may set new records in the motorcycle auction realm, reminding everyone of the special connection between music, personal history, and the open road.