Billy Joel Will Auction Motorcycle Collection This November

The music icon is set to auction 70 motorcycles at the Javits Center on November 20-21.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Motocycles

Bold vector editorial illustration of a vintage motorcycle on a gallery plinth, representing an upcoming high-profile auction.
Music icon Billy Joel is set to auction 70 motorcycles from his personal collection on November 20-21 at New York City's Javits Center. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Billy Joel will auction his personal collection of 70 motorcycles on November 20-21, 2026, at the Javits Center during the Retromobile New York Auto Show. Proceeds from the sale, which includes bikes without reserve, will be donated to the Joel Foundation.

Why it matters

The 77-year-old artist is downsizing his holdings while recovering from surgery for normal pressure hydrocephalus. This auction follows the closure of his 20th Century Cycles showroom in Oyster Bay last year.

A 1975 Ducati Sport is valued at up to $35,000, while a custom Triumph Bonneville commemorating his 150 sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden is estimated between $10,000 and $15,000.

The players

Billy Joel

He is a world-renowned singer-songwriter famous for his extensive musical career and residency at Madison Square Garden.

Joel Foundation

This charitable organization, founded by Billy Joel, supports programs that provide music education and humanitarian aid.

Christie's Auction House

This is a world-leading art and luxury business that facilitates high-end auctions and displays for private collections.

The details

Select motorcycles from the collection are currently on display at Christie's Auction House until Monday. The collection features various notable models, including a 1982 Ducati Mike Hailwood Replica and a 1978 custom Triumph Bonneville.

Timeline

  1. Select motorcycles are on display at Christie's through Monday.

  2. The auction is scheduled to take place on Nov. 20-21, 2026.

  3. The 20th Century Cycles showroom in Oyster Bay closed in 2025.

Roadmap

This auction marks the final dispersal of a notable private collection following the closure of the 20th Century Cycles showroom. It reflects a wider industry trend where high-profile automotive collections move from private showcases into the broader secondary market.

Local enthusiasts have the opportunity to acquire rare motorcycles through the auction at the Javits Center. Interested bidders should note that the motorcycles are being sold without reserve, providing a direct purchasing opportunity at the event.

The takeaway

The auction provides a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire vintage motorcycles from a high-profile collection. Prospective buyers should review the auction catalog ahead of the November dates to prepare for potential bidding.

Further reading

For more on the local scene, explore Motocycles.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Newsday.

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