More than 30 of New Zealand’s best bikes at annual Webb’s Classic Motorbikes auction

21 September, 2015

Some of New Zealand’s finest motorbikes will be going up for auction this Sunday, September 27, as part of the annual Webb’s Classic Motorbikes auction in Parnell. The lead-up to the auction has seen Webb’s Parnell showroom transform into a makeshift motorcycle museum, with examples ranging through the eras — a 1950 Vincent Black Shadow, through to a 1959 Manx Norton, and a 1979 Ducati 900SS FIM make up the 33-strong selection.

One of the more unique bikes up for grabs is this 1974 Benelli SEI 750. It holds standing as the first ever motorbike to utilize a six-cylinder engine. The Italian-produced bikes were curiously designed by Alejandro de Tomaso — a man far more well known for his work in the automotive sector, having assisted in the production of a variety of cars, ranging from Formula 1 cars to the ubiquitous Daihatsu Charade de Tomaso of the early ’90s. The SEI wasn’t just a pioneer in regards to its power plant, though, as a pioneer in motorbike design. Its angular shape helped change the direction of future motorbike design from rivalling brands, who up to that point in time had employed a more rounded shape to their bodies.

Another of the many bikes worth noting is this handmade 1975 MV Agusta 750S. Expected to sell for between $90,000 and $100,000, the Agusta 750S had an incredibly successful stint in international competition. The Agusta name first came to relevance in 1948, when Franco Bertoni used one to claim honours in the Italian Grand Prix. Agusta bikes would go on to win the 125cc, 250cc, and 500cc international championships over the 1956, 1958, 1959, and 1960 seasons. MV Agusta accumulated 270 Grand Prix race wins in total, thanks in part to the services of some of the best riders on two wheels, including names like Mike Hailwood and John Surtees. This particular example has covered a mere 37,266km in its 40 years on terra firma, and it certainly looks good enough to do even more.

There are plenty more incredible machines on display at Webb’s for all to see. If you’re interested in snapping a few up, or you’d simply like to absorb some of the best two-wheeled nostalgia that New Zealand has to offer, viewing kicks off on September 18, with the Webb’s auction house open each day from then until auction day on September 27. Viewing hours are listed below:

Friday, September 18: 9am–5pm
Saturday, September 19: 10am–4pm
Sunday, September 20: 10am–4pm
onday, September 21: 9am–5pm
Tuesday, September 22: 9am–5pm
Wednesday, September 23: 9am–5pm
Thursday, September 24: 9am–5pm
Friday, September 25: 9am–5pm
Saturday, September 26: 10am–4pm
Sunday, September 27 (auction day): 11am

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1985 Citröen 2CV6 Charleston

21 October, 2025

Kerry describes it as ‘a very simple car to do’. The suspension can be set to the required ride height. It is essential to weigh each corner to avoid too much weight difference from side to side. The four-speed gearbox was re-built. They are prone to getting a little water in them if not serviced correctly. Water etches into the bearings. The main shaft was also replaced.
But as it was a reasonably high mileage car, Kerry expected a few mechanical issues.
“The lady I bought it off owned it from 900km after it had been sold new to a gentleman in Palmerston North. He found he couldn’t fit into it. This woman in Hamilton bought it and she had run it to a total of 101,000kms. It was brand new in 1985 so it’s done quite a few kilometres for a little car.”
Not surprisingly, these little cars grow on their owners and the previous lady owner is now interested in buying it back.

Get together for Murray Charles

21 October, 2025

Motorsport enthusiast, Murray Charles (84) passed away earlier this year. Murray’s friend, Danny Robins, contacted New Zealand Classic Car magazine to advise that a memorial get-together has been arranged in Martinborough for 28 November.
“Andrew Shackelton was a close friend and neighbour of Murray. Andrew has arranged an informal memorial for any old chums or colleagues who might wish to get together and
reminisce about the days of New Zealand racing,” Danny said. Murray did drive and was, by all accounts, a competent racer himself.
“He is probably better known for his engineering and mechanical expertise, particularly his contribution as a car mechanic to the golden years of Graham McRae’s Tasman successes.”
Murray provided a photograph of a copy of an Australian motor racing magazine from 1971 showing Murray alongside Graham’s famous car, as well as an informal snap of a younger,
pensive Murray with Kerry Grant at Levin.
The get together will be on the 28th of November, 1600hrs (4.00 pm) onwards at 28 Daniel Street, Martinborough.”

More than 30 of New Zealand’s best bikes at annual Webb’s Classic Motorbikes auction

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