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Besides the thrill it affords its riders, motorbikes are one of the fastest means of road transportation today. These two-wheeled engine-powered automobiles have grown in popularity over the past few decades as their usage cut across personal adventure, sports purposes, etc. It is also why their demand has risen, as they continue to appeal to many young and fun-seeking individuals. While motorbikes may perform the same function, they differ from each other. Typically, factors like speed and durability are a few of what differentiates one motorbike from another and may influence a motorbike lover to buy one over another. However, in this article, we will look at the world's top ten most expensive motorbikes, why they are expensive, and what makes them so unique.
Ducati Testa Stretta NCR Macchia Nera ($225,000)
At the World Ducati Week in 2004, the technology giant announced that it had launched the Macchia Nera series as its latest engineering magic at the time. The bike, designed by Aldo Drudi, weighs 135kg and features a 998R engine producing 185hp power to its wheels. While it may not be the fastest bike, its 6-speed gear system is powered by chain transmission, making it unique. Today, one would need to shell out $225,000 to acquire this beauty.
Ducati Desmosedici D16RR NCR M16 ($235,000)
Released in 2007 as one of the new frontiers of Ducati's technological evolution, this bike is made from titanium, avionic, and aluminum materials, all supported with carbon fiber. It is powered by a four-stroke V4 engine, an injection fuel system, and a six-speed gearbox. Apart from its high speed, this machine utilizes race-style electronics, data recording, and user-selectable maps. Today, it cost around $235,000 to acquire this motorbike.
Ecosse Founder's Edition Ti XX ($300,000)
The Ecosse Founder's Edition Ti XX is a technological masterclass produced in 2007 as a limited-edition motorbike with only thirteen units for sale. It is entirely produced with Carbon fiber and is powered by a 2.4-liter billet aluminum engine producing 228HP power. Its aesthetics is pleasing, as it is light in size and a beauty to behold. No wonder it currently costs $300,000 today.
Legendary British Vintage Black ($400,000)
When it was produced in the U.K in 1948, it was initially known as Vincent-HRD and was the fastest bike in the world at the time. Its design was breathtaking and bespoke, and only 33 pieces were ever made. Despite its production phasing out, today it is an iconic item, which is still a possession for collectors. However, if one were to purchase it today, it would not cost less than $400,000.
Dodge Tomahawk V10 Superbike ($550,000)
The Dodge Tomahawk V10 Superbike was released in 2003 as a limited-edition motorbike with only nine pieces for sale. Today, it remains one of the fastest bikes in the world, with a top speed of 400mph, and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. The two-wheeled four-tires bike, weighing 680 kilograms, is also powered by a V10 four-stroke Dodge Viper engine that boosts its overall performance. Today, it remains the world's fastest motorbike in a straight line, costing $550,0000.
Harley Davidson Cosmic Starship ($1.5 million)
This motorbike is a definition of machine and art, as Legendary painter and artist Jack Armstrong executed its design and painting. While its standard features do not come close to that of many power bikes today, the 2002 V-Rod, converted to a rare technological art masterpiece by Jack, remains iconic. At one point, the rare piece sold for up to $30 million and was the world's most expensive bike for a long time. However, with just $1.5 million, one would cop this piece today.
The Yamaha BMS Chopper ($3 million)
Equipped with a 1,700cc engine, the Yamaha BMS Chopper is not one of the most expensive motorbikes in 2022 because of its performance but aesthetics. This luxury piece is expensive and beyond reach for an average biker because it is coated in 24-karat gold. However, today, it is a collector's item, solely kept for admiration and viewers' pleasure. One would be willing to fork out a whopping $3 million to coup this beauty today.
Ecosse ES1 Spirit ($3.6 Million)
Released in 2017, the Ecosse ES1 Spirit is a powerful superbike with two swing arms, no frame, headstock, and forks. The 120kg motorbike is powered by a rare engine that allows it to go as far as 370km with a speed of 240 MPH. However, due to its peculiarity, its riders will need two weeks of training with its manufacturer to learn how to operate this superb machine. This is why it is the third most expensive bike in the world in 2022, valued at a staggering $3.6 million.
1949 E90 AJS Porcupine ($7 Million)
The E90 AJS Porcupine is another masterclass that made it into the elusive list of the most expensive motorbikes in 2022. Produced in 1949 in only four units, one of them was used to win the world championship by British motorcycle road racer Les Graham. It is no wonder why the classic vintage commodity is expensive today and costs a whopping $7 million to own.
Neiman Marcus Limited Edition Fighter ($11 Million)
The most expensive bike in the world today is the Neiman Marcus Limited Edition Fighter, valued at an astonishing $11 million. The limited-edition bike, powered by a 120ci 45-degree air-cooled V-Twin engine and comprises titanium, aluminum, and carbon fiber body parts, can reach a top speed of 190 mph. When it was first released, it cost around $110,000. However, the American luxury department stores opted to auction a piece of the bike, which eventually sold for $11 million.
Sources: Wealthy Gorilla, EgScholars.