🏛️Vintage and Classic Motorcycles

Vintage and Classic Motorcycles

Restoration guides, buying checklists and in-depth profiles of the classic motorcycles worth owning in Australia.

Top Classic Models

In-depth profiles of the four most significant classic motorcycles in Australia, with buying guides and current market values.

Honda CB750 (1969 to 1978)

The bike that changed everything

All-time classic

The Honda CB750 is the most significant motorcycle ever made. When it launched in 1969 it brought overhead-cam performance, a front disc brake and an electric starter to a mass-market machine for the first time. Today a good example is an appreciating asset and a genuinely capable ride.

Buying Guide: What to Check

→Check all four carburettors: rebuilding the SOHC750 carb bank is time-consuming
→Inspect the crankcase breather and oil condition: sludge buildup indicates neglect
→Original chrome and side panels are expensive to restore if damaged
→Points ignition on pre-1975 models benefits from electronic conversion
→Frame numbers on the headstock should match registration documents

Current market value:$8,000 to $25,000 depending on year and condition

Triumph Bonneville T120/T140 (1959 to 1983)

The definitive British twin

Collector favourite

The Bonneville is the quintessential British parallel twin: vibey, characterful and endlessly tunable. Pre-unit and unit construction examples from the 1960s are the most collectible. A well-restored Bonnie is a joy to ride and a great show bike.

Buying Guide: What to Check

→Check primary chain case for oil leaks: common and often ignored by sellers
→Verify the gearbox shifts cleanly through all four ratios
→Meriden-era T140s (post 1973) have better oil circulation but heavier feel
→Parts availability is excellent through UK suppliers
→Matching engine and frame numbers important for value

Current market value:$7,000 to $22,000 depending on year and specification

BMW R80/7 and R80RT (1977 to 1984)

The reliable aircooled boxer

Best daily classic

The BMW /7 series airhead boxers are among the most reliable vintage motorcycles available. The flat-twin engine is simple to work on, parts are plentiful and the machines cover serious distances without drama. The R80RT fairing model is a practical long-distance classic.

Buying Guide: What to Check

→Check both cylinder heads for fin damage and head gasket leaks
→Rear drive (final drive) should be checked for bearing wear and oil leaks
→Bing carburettors are simple but age hardens float bowl seals: common rebuild
→Condition of the Earles fork (earlier) or telescopic fork (later models) is important
→Electrical faults from aged wiring looms are common on neglected examples

Current market value:$6,000 to $18,000 depending on model and condition

Kawasaki Z900 / Z1 (1972 to 1977)

The ultimate Japanese muscle bike

High value collector

The Z1 arrived in 1972 as Kawasaki's answer to the CB750 and immediately surpassed it in power and ambition. The 903cc DOHC four cylinder with its distinctive four-into-four exhaust is one of the great-sounding motorcycles ever made. Values have risen sharply as collectors recognise the Z1's significance.

Buying Guide: What to Check

→Camchain tensioner is the critical item: expensive if neglected, budget for renewal
→Frame rust is common in Australian coastal bikes: inspect underneath mudguards carefully
→Original four-into-four exhaust adds significant value and is hard to replace authentically
→Crankcase breather modifications are often needed to manage oil consumption on high-mileage examples
→Many have been modified: original unmodified bikes command a premium

Current market value:$12,000 to $45,000 for clean original examples

Restoration Guide

A six-phase framework for restoring a classic motorcycle, from initial assessment to safety upgrades.

Assessment and Documentation

Before touching anything, thoroughly photograph the bike in its current state. Note every fault, missing part and wear item. Research the correct specifications for your model year: incorrect details destroy value.

Engine Rebuild or Service

Decide whether to rebuild or service based on condition. A full engine rebuild is expensive but gives a known base. At minimum, service the carburettors, replace gaskets and check valve clearances. Check all bearing tolerances against factory specs.

Frame, Suspension and Brakes

Strip the frame and inspect for cracks, particularly at the steering head and swingarm pivot. Sand blast and repaint or powdercoat. Rebuild or replace wheel bearings, brake master cylinders and callipers. Suspension rebuilds improve safety dramatically.

Electrical System

Old wiring harnesses are a fire risk. Replace degraded wiring, rebuild or replace the charging system and convert the ignition to electronic points-free if desired. A healthy charging system is essential for reliable use.

Cosmetics and Chrome

Fuel tank, mudguards and side panels can be professionally resprayed. Chrome rechroming is expensive: budget accordingly. Source original transfers and badges: reproductions are available for most popular models.

Safety Upgrades

While maintaining originality in appearance, consider safety upgrades invisible to the eye: electronic ignition, braided brake lines, modern tyres and LED lighting conversions where they do not compromise appearance.

Classic Motorcycle Buying Checklist

Use this checklist before handing over any money.

1Request full ownership history and service records
2Check for matching engine and frame numbers
3Start the engine from cold: difficult starting may indicate poor compression or carb issues
4Ride on public roads if the seller permits: check gearbox, brakes and steering
5Inspect for crash damage: twisted frame or bent forks indicate history
6Check tyre condition and age (DOT date code on the sidewall)
7Inspect for oil leaks under the engine and from the forks
8Verify the bike is roadworthy or budget for a roadworthy certificate
9Research current market values before making an offer
10Consider using a pre-purchase inspection service for expensive purchases

Clubs and Events

Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria

VIC

All classic and vintage motorcycles

NSW Vintage Motorcycle Club

NSW

Pre-1975 motorcycles, rallies and swap meets

Vintage Motorcycle Club of Queensland

QLD

All classic and vintage models, annual rally

Honda CB750 Owners Club Australia

National

Honda CB750 specific: technical advice and events

BMW Motorrad Club Australia

National

All BMW models including airhead classics

Triumph Owners Motor Cycle Club

National

British bikes with strong Triumph focus