1986 Honda Z50
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
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Description
1986 HONDA Z50R
INVESTMENT-QUALITY ORIGINAL SURVIVOR – ORIGINAL PAINT – FACTORY TIRES – PRESERVATION SERVICED – COLLECTOR GRADE!
RARE RED & GOLD COLOR COMBINATION | ORIGINAL HONDA FINISHES | ORIGINAL 1985 DATE-CODED TIRES | EXCEPTIONAL CONDITION | RUNS LIKE NEW!
FEAST YOUR EYES ON THIS ABSOLUTELY SPECTACULAR 1986 HONDA Z50R!
Ladies and gentlemen, this is the one collectors dream about! The iconic 1986 Honda Z50R, finished in the legendary red and gold color combination, is widely regarded as one of the most desirable and collectible Honda Z50 models ever produced, rivaled perhaps only by the legendary Christmas Special.
Finding one of these little Hondas in good condition is difficult enough. Finding one that still retains its original factory tank paint, original Honda decals, original seat, original wheels, original tires, and virtually all of its factory components in this remarkable condition is something truly special!
This isn't a reproduction. It isn't a complete restoration covered in aftermarket replacement parts. This is an extraordinarily well-preserved, substantially original survivor that has just received a comprehensive mechanical preservation service and professional cosmetic detailing by the team at Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum.
IT LOOKS LIKE NEW, RUNS LIKE NEW, AND SOUNDS LIKE NEW!
INCREDIBLE ORIGINALITY – A TRUE COLLECTOR'S MOTORCYCLE
What makes this particular 1986 Honda Z50R so extraordinary is the remarkable preservation of its original factory components and finishes.
Original Factory Fuel Tank: The beautiful red fuel tank retains its original Honda factory paint, complete with its original Honda decals. There are absolutely no dents in the tank, something exceptionally unusual for a 40-year-old minibike. The original graphics are beautifully preserved, with one side appearing virtually as it did when it left the factory and the other showing only minor age-related patina.
The inside of the tank is exceptionally clean, with no visible rust observed during inspection.
Original Honda Wheels and Tires: The stunning gold wheels retain their original factory gold paint. Even more remarkably, this Z50R still wears its original tires, displaying the 17th week of 1985 manufacturing date code! The survival of these original components is a tremendous testament to the care and preservation this machine has received.
Original Seat: The factory Honda saddle remains intact and in excellent condition, with the authentic appearance that collectors value.
Original Bodywork: Both fenders, number plates, and associated factory cycle parts have been preserved. The motorcycle retains its original Honda character throughout.
Original Suspension and Chrome: The original forks are in excellent cosmetic condition, with the original chrome remaining intact on the lower fork components. The chrome triple-clamp hardware, steering stem, and fuel cap also present beautifully.
Original Swingarm: The swingarm retains its original Honda factory paint and decal, further demonstrating the originality of this exceptional survivor.
Aside from the upgraded gold drive chain, replacement NOS Honda grips, and routine service items, this machine retains its original factory equipment and components. Selected engine and chassis components have been professionally refinished as detailed below.
COMPREHENSIVE MECHANICAL PRESERVATION SERVICE
Our technicians have just completed a thorough preservation service to ensure this beautiful Honda runs as well as it looks.
Work performed includes:
-
Complete fuel system inspection and servicing
-
Fuel tank thoroughly cleaned and inspected
-
Carburetor professionally rebuilt
-
New fuel lines installed
-
New fuel drain/overflow lines installed
-
New air filter installed
-
Original Honda air filter housing retained
-
Engine thoroughly cleaned and inspected
-
Upgraded gold drive chain installed
-
Motorcycle professionally steam cleaned and hand washed
-
Comprehensive cosmetic detailing performed
-
Engine test-run and operational evaluation completed
The original Honda four-stroke engine is exceptionally quiet mechanically, with the smooth, dependable operation that helped make these machines legendary.
It starts, runs, and sounds fantastic!
The new gold drive chain was selected specifically to complement the original gold wheels and gold-toned rear suspension components. The result is a subtle, tasteful improvement that enhances the motorcycle's appearance without compromising its classic presentation.
PROFESSIONAL DETAILING AND COSMETIC PRESERVATION
Our professional detail shop took exceptional care in preserving the original appearance of this Z50R.
The original exhaust system was removed and professionally refinished in the correct Honda-style factory color before reinstallation.
Additional components professionally refinished include:
-
Original exhaust system
-
Engine side covers
-
Foot pegs
-
Kickstarter
-
Kickstand
-
Chain guide
These components were carefully removed or prepared for refinishing so that the hardware was not indiscriminately painted over. The result is a clean, factory-style presentation rather than the appearance of a hastily repainted motorcycle.
Importantly, the fuel tank, wheels, swingarm, and major original painted components retain their factory finishes.
This machine was preserved and sympathetically refreshed, not subjected to a complete frame-off restoration.
THE LEGENDARY 1986 HONDA Z50R
Honda's Z50 series is one of the most recognizable and beloved minibike families in motorcycle history.
These machines introduced countless riders to motorcycling and earned an almost legendary reputation for their simplicity, durability, and sheer fun.
The 1986 Z50R is particularly desirable because of its unmistakable red-and-gold factory appearance, compact proportions, and timeless Honda styling.
Key features include:
-
Legendary Honda 49cc air-cooled four-stroke engine
-
Three-speed semi-automatic transmission
-
Automatic clutch
-
Kick-start ignition
-
Classic Honda minibike chassis
-
Front telescopic suspension
-
Dual rear shock absorbers
-
Drum brakes
-
Factory gold wheels
-
Iconic red-and-gold color combination
These little motorcycles were purchased to be ridden, jumped, crashed, modified, and thoroughly enjoyed. Very few escaped childhood ownership with their original paint, seats, wheels, decals, and tires still intact.
That is exactly why an original survivor of this caliber deserves serious attention.
COLLECTOR VALUE AND INVESTMENT APPEAL
The vintage Honda minibike market has developed a passionate international following, with exceptional examples commanding significant attention from collectors.
The legendary Honda Z50 Christmas Special has produced some extraordinary auction results. A pair of crated Christmas Specials reportedly sold at Mecum for approximately $52,000, with another reported pair result of approximately $42,000.
Those are exceptional specialty-model auction results rather than direct valuations of a standard Z50R, but they illustrate the enthusiasm that exists for rare, highly preserved Honda minibikes.
Among regular-production examples, the 1986 red-and-gold Z50R is one of the standout collector favorites.
What separates this motorcycle from a typical refurbished example is its remarkable preservation and originality.
You can restore a worn-out Z50R. You can buy reproduction decals, replacement seats, new fenders, and aftermarket wheels.
But you cannot recreate 40 years of genuine factory originality.
Original paint is original paint. Original decals are original decals. And original date-coded tires surviving on a beautifully preserved minibike are something you simply don't encounter every day.
This is the kind of machine that deserves a place in a serious Honda collection, private motorcycle museum, or alongside an investment-quality collection of vintage Japanese motorcycles.
EXCELLENT COLLECTOR PROVENANCE
We acquired this exceptional Z50R directly from an established client of Kaplan Cycles, a high-end motorcycle collector who was selectively releasing several motorcycles from his personal collection.
The preservation of this machine speaks for itself.
Rather than being subjected to the typical hard life of a children's off-road motorcycle, this example has survived in exceptionally well-maintained cosmetic condition.
It is now fully serviced, professionally detailed, and ready for its next caretaker.
CONDITION SUMMARY
Model: 1986 Honda Z50R
Color: Factory Red / Gold
Fuel Tank: Original factory paint and original Honda graphics; no dents
Wheels: Original factory gold paint
Tires: Original tires with 17th-week-of-1985 date codes
Seat: Original Honda seat
Fenders and Number Plates: Original Honda components
Engine: Original-style Honda four-stroke; exceptionally quiet and excellent running condition
Carburetor: Professionally rebuilt
Fuel System: Cleaned and serviced, with new lines
Air Filter: New filter in original housing
Chain: Upgraded gold chain
Grips: NOS Honda replacements
Exhaust and Selected Components: Professionally refinished
Overall Condition: Exceptional, highly original collector-grade survivor with limited age-related cosmetic patina
Please review the detailed photographs and running video to fully appreciate this motorcycle's condition. Although exceptionally well preserved, it remains a vintage machine with appropriate age-related characteristics. Original tires are significant for display originality and should be evaluated before regular riding.
A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A PIECE OF HONDA HISTORY!
Whether you grew up riding one of these machines, have been searching for an outstanding centerpiece for your Honda collection, or simply appreciate the engineering and history of classic Japanese motorcycles, this Z50R represents an extraordinary opportunity.
1986 HONDA Z50R. ORIGINAL RED AND GOLD. ORIGINAL PAINT. ORIGINAL FACTORY TIRES. PROFESSIONALLY PRESERVATION SERVICED.
They are only original once!
Opportunities to acquire examples preserved to this level are increasingly difficult to find.
DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO OWN THIS EXCEPTIONAL HONDA CLASSIC!
CONTACT KAPLAN CYCLES
Kaplan Cycles / New England Motorcycle Museum
Rockville, Connecticut
Phone: 860-454-7024
Website: www.KaplanCycles.com
We offer professional, licensed, insured, enclosed motorcycle shipping directly to your door. Contact us for a shipping quote or with any questions regarding this exceptional Honda Z50R.
Visit our website for additional high-resolution photographs, running videos, and our current inventory of collectible classic motorcycles.
Thanks for your interest, and God Bless America!
— The Kaplan Cycles Team
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
Wheels
1986 HONDA Z50R
INVESTMENT-QUALITY ORIGINAL SURVIVOR – ORIGINAL PAINT – FACTORY TIRES – PRESERVATION SERVICED – COLLECTOR GRADE!
RARE RED & GOLD COLOR COMBINATION | ORIGINAL HONDA FINISHES | ORIGINAL 1985 DATE-CODED TIRES | EXCEPTIONAL CONDITION | RUNS LIKE NEW!
FEAST YOUR EYES ON THIS ABSOLUTELY SPECTACULAR 1986 HONDA Z50R!
Ladies and gentlemen, this is the one collectors dream about! The iconic 1986 Honda Z50R, finished in the legendary red and gold color combination, is widely regarded as one of the most desirable and collectible Honda Z50 models ever produced, rivaled perhaps only by the legendary Christmas Special.
Finding one of these little Hondas in good condition is difficult enough. Finding one that still retains its original factory tank paint, original Honda decals, original seat, original wheels, original tires, and virtually all of its factory components in this remarkable condition is something truly special!
This isn't a reproduction. It isn't a complete restoration covered in aftermarket replacement parts. This is an extraordinarily well-preserved, substantially original survivor that has just received a comprehensive mechanical preservation service and professional cosmetic detailing by the team at Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum.
IT LOOKS LIKE NEW, RUNS LIKE NEW, AND SOUNDS LIKE NEW!
INCREDIBLE ORIGINALITY – A TRUE COLLECTOR'S MOTORCYCLE
What makes this particular 1986 Honda Z50R so extraordinary is the remarkable preservation of its original factory components and finishes.
Original Factory Fuel Tank: The beautiful red fuel tank retains its original Honda factory paint, complete with its original Honda decals. There are absolutely no dents in the tank, something exceptionally unusual for a 40-year-old minibike. The original graphics are beautifully preserved, with one side appearing virtually as it did when it left the factory and the other showing only minor age-related patina.
The inside of the tank is exceptionally clean, with no visible rust observed during inspection.
Original Honda Wheels and Tires: The stunning gold wheels retain their original factory gold paint. Even more remarkably, this Z50R still wears its original tires, displaying the 17th week of 1985 manufacturing date code! The survival of these original components is a tremendous testament to the care and preservation this machine has received.
Original Seat: The factory Honda saddle remains intact and in excellent condition, with the authentic appearance that collectors value.
Original Bodywork: Both fenders, number plates, and associated factory cycle parts have been preserved. The motorcycle retains its original Honda character throughout.
Original Suspension and Chrome: The original forks are in excellent cosmetic condition, with the original chrome remaining intact on the lower fork components. The chrome triple-clamp hardware, steering stem, and fuel cap also present beautifully.
Original Swingarm: The swingarm retains its original Honda factory paint and decal, further demonstrating the originality of this exceptional survivor.
Aside from the upgraded gold drive chain, replacement NOS Honda grips, and routine service items, this machine retains its original factory equipment and components. Selected engine and chassis components have been professionally refinished as detailed below.
COMPREHENSIVE MECHANICAL PRESERVATION SERVICE
Our technicians have just completed a thorough preservation service to ensure this beautiful Honda runs as well as it looks.
Work performed includes:
-
Complete fuel system inspection and servicing
-
Fuel tank thoroughly cleaned and inspected
-
Carburetor professionally rebuilt
-
New fuel lines installed
-
New fuel drain/overflow lines installed
-
New air filter installed
-
Original Honda air filter housing retained
-
Engine thoroughly cleaned and inspected
-
Upgraded gold drive chain installed
-
Motorcycle professionally steam cleaned and hand washed
-
Comprehensive cosmetic detailing performed
-
Engine test-run and operational evaluation completed
The original Honda four-stroke engine is exceptionally quiet mechanically, with the smooth, dependable operation that helped make these machines legendary.
It starts, runs, and sounds fantastic!
The new gold drive chain was selected specifically to complement the original gold wheels and gold-toned rear suspension components. The result is a subtle, tasteful improvement that enhances the motorcycle's appearance without compromising its classic presentation.
PROFESSIONAL DETAILING AND COSMETIC PRESERVATION
Our professional detail shop took exceptional care in preserving the original appearance of this Z50R.
The original exhaust system was removed and professionally refinished in the correct Honda-style factory color before reinstallation.
Additional components professionally refinished include:
-
Original exhaust system
-
Engine side covers
-
Foot pegs
-
Kickstarter
-
Kickstand
-
Chain guide
These components were carefully removed or prepared for refinishing so that the hardware was not indiscriminately painted over. The result is a clean, factory-style presentation rather than the appearance of a hastily repainted motorcycle.
Importantly, the fuel tank, wheels, swingarm, and major original painted components retain their factory finishes.
This machine was preserved and sympathetically refreshed, not subjected to a complete frame-off restoration.
THE LEGENDARY 1986 HONDA Z50R
Honda's Z50 series is one of the most recognizable and beloved minibike families in motorcycle history.
These machines introduced countless riders to motorcycling and earned an almost legendary reputation for their simplicity, durability, and sheer fun.
The 1986 Z50R is particularly desirable because of its unmistakable red-and-gold factory appearance, compact proportions, and timeless Honda styling.
Key features include:
-
Legendary Honda 49cc air-cooled four-stroke engine
-
Three-speed semi-automatic transmission
-
Automatic clutch
-
Kick-start ignition
-
Classic Honda minibike chassis
-
Front telescopic suspension
-
Dual rear shock absorbers
-
Drum brakes
-
Factory gold wheels
-
Iconic red-and-gold color combination
These little motorcycles were purchased to be ridden, jumped, crashed, modified, and thoroughly enjoyed. Very few escaped childhood ownership with their original paint, seats, wheels, decals, and tires still intact.
That is exactly why an original survivor of this caliber deserves serious attention.
COLLECTOR VALUE AND INVESTMENT APPEAL
The vintage Honda minibike market has developed a passionate international following, with exceptional examples commanding significant attention from collectors.
The legendary Honda Z50 Christmas Special has produced some extraordinary auction results. A pair of crated Christmas Specials reportedly sold at Mecum for approximately $52,000, with another reported pair result of approximately $42,000.
Those are exceptional specialty-model auction results rather than direct valuations of a standard Z50R, but they illustrate the enthusiasm that exists for rare, highly preserved Honda minibikes.
Among regular-production examples, the 1986 red-and-gold Z50R is one of the standout collector favorites.
What separates this motorcycle from a typical refurbished example is its remarkable preservation and originality.
You can restore a worn-out Z50R. You can buy reproduction decals, replacement seats, new fenders, and aftermarket wheels.
But you cannot recreate 40 years of genuine factory originality.
Original paint is original paint. Original decals are original decals. And original date-coded tires surviving on a beautifully preserved minibike are something you simply don't encounter every day.
This is the kind of machine that deserves a place in a serious Honda collection, private motorcycle museum, or alongside an investment-quality collection of vintage Japanese motorcycles.
EXCELLENT COLLECTOR PROVENANCE
We acquired this exceptional Z50R directly from an established client of Kaplan Cycles, a high-end motorcycle collector who was selectively releasing several motorcycles from his personal collection.
The preservation of this machine speaks for itself.
Rather than being subjected to the typical hard life of a children's off-road motorcycle, this example has survived in exceptionally well-maintained cosmetic condition.
It is now fully serviced, professionally detailed, and ready for its next caretaker.
CONDITION SUMMARY
Model: 1986 Honda Z50R
Color: Factory Red / Gold
Fuel Tank: Original factory paint and original Honda graphics; no dents
Wheels: Original factory gold paint
Tires: Original tires with 17th-week-of-1985 date codes
Seat: Original Honda seat
Fenders and Number Plates: Original Honda components
Engine: Original-style Honda four-stroke; exceptionally quiet and excellent running condition
Carburetor: Professionally rebuilt
Fuel System: Cleaned and serviced, with new lines
Air Filter: New filter in original housing
Chain: Upgraded gold chain
Grips: NOS Honda replacements
Exhaust and Selected Components: Professionally refinished
Overall Condition: Exceptional, highly original collector-grade survivor with limited age-related cosmetic patina
Please review the detailed photographs and running video to fully appreciate this motorcycle's condition. Although exceptionally well preserved, it remains a vintage machine with appropriate age-related characteristics. Original tires are significant for display originality and should be evaluated before regular riding.
A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A PIECE OF HONDA HISTORY!
Whether you grew up riding one of these machines, have been searching for an outstanding centerpiece for your Honda collection, or simply appreciate the engineering and history of classic Japanese motorcycles, this Z50R represents an extraordinary opportunity.
1986 HONDA Z50R. ORIGINAL RED AND GOLD. ORIGINAL PAINT. ORIGINAL FACTORY TIRES. PROFESSIONALLY PRESERVATION SERVICED.
They are only original once!
Opportunities to acquire examples preserved to this level are increasingly difficult to find.
DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO OWN THIS EXCEPTIONAL HONDA CLASSIC!
CONTACT KAPLAN CYCLES
Kaplan Cycles / New England Motorcycle Museum
Rockville, Connecticut
Phone: 860-454-7024
Website: www.KaplanCycles.com
We offer professional, licensed, insured, enclosed motorcycle shipping directly to your door. Contact us for a shipping quote or with any questions regarding this exceptional Honda Z50R.
Visit our website for additional high-resolution photographs, running videos, and our current inventory of collectible classic motorcycles.
Thanks for your interest, and God Bless America!
— The Kaplan Cycles Team
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
