What's the best collector motorcycle to buy this year? According to the insurance folks, it's a World War II-era Harley-Davidson Knucklehead.
That pick comes from the sixth annual U.S. Bull Market list put out by Hagerty, which specializes in insurance for antique or rare vehicles, among other services. Hagerty says the list is intended to identify "enthusiast cars and vehicles with the best potential to hold or increase in value in the coming year." Unsurprisingly, only one motorcycle made the car-focused list. (It's only the third time a motorcycle has made the list, along with the 1994 to 1998 Ducati 916 in 2020 and the 1969 Honda CB750 in 2021.)
This time, the 1936 to 1947 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead models made the list. Hagerty estimated a value for these motorcycles of $90,300 to $115,000, based on a machine in "excellent" condition, under its valuation standards.
Hagerty bases the list on sales information, insurance valuations, and other data points. For example, one thing in favor of the Knucklehead is that more young collectors are buying these models, which suggests support for their value in the future.
Here's what the Hagerty folks had to say about the Harley: "Throw a leg over this low and long cruiser and you'll have some idea what freedom and rebellion meant in postwar America. Knucklehead owners are nearly three times more likely than Indian Chief owners to be under 45 years old. And those younger enthusiasts are insuring Knuckleheads for 15% more than boomers. As far as motorcycles go, the Knucklehead has a bright future with the next generation taking up the torch."
You can see the full list, which includes everything from a Hummer H1 to a Suzuki Cappuccino, at Hagerty's web site.
Buying a motorcycle in hopes of it going up in value is a risky move. Depreciation is far more common and likely than appreciation, when it comes to motor vehicles. But if you buy one you enjoy owning and — for the more daring — riding, then it can still be a win even if you don't make money.
What motorcycle would you buy in hopes it will climb in value?