Reality television star looking for a change of focus, not passion.
Early American
Mike Wolfe recently put over seventy bikes on the block at Mecum Auctions – Las Vegas. Well known from American Pickers on A&E's History Channel, the reality television star stated that it was time for a change. In a Mecum Magazine feature, Wolfe spoke about his passion for early American motorcycles and the Harley-Davidson RL 45 that kickstarted his collection.
Photos: Mecum Auctions
Past Dream
Listed as a 'Main Attraction,' Wolfe's 'As Found Collection' is a unique glimpse into the collector's world and the thrill of discovery. He elaborated, “I’ve never cleaned anything so that I can relive that moment of finding them where they’ve been sitting for the past 50 or 75 years in an old cellar or barn. All these bikes were someone else’s dream.”
Desirable Deals
Wolfe's collection included a range of gems from the golden era of motorcycling. On offer were examples from Harley-Davidson, Excelsior, and Yale, along with a few other oddities. With ample amounts of patina and original paint, a desirable mix of mechanically sound bikes and project deals crossed the auction floor in mid-January 2022.
Restored Participant
Among Wolfe's prized machines were 'sorted runners' that demonstrated decades of care and dedication. One such example was this sidecar-equipped 1921 JD—a frequent participant in rallies held by the Antique Motorcycle Club of America (AMCA). A top-of-the-line model for Harley-Davidson, the JD was restored by long-time AMCA member, George Twine of Enfield, Connecticut, before he passed away in 2010.
Worldwide Story
Saddling up with Mecum Auctions for the collection's sale was an easy choice for Wolfe. Working from his kitchen table, Dana Mecum founded the now-worldwide business in 1988. Both Wolfe and Mecum share a similar story of 'making something out of nothing' through perseverance and passion. Wolfe elaborated further on why he was selling his personal collection.
Fascinated Focus
Wolfe reflected on his shifting priorities after decades of picking and collecting. “I’ve put in a lot of miles, time, and leads for this collection. These are the fruits of my labor for thirty-five years. My focus has changed to pre-1915 American motorcycles—that’s the stuff that brings me the most joy and what I’m still fascinated with.”
Hooked Motion
Wolfe continued, recounting the moment his obsession with vintage machines began. “The first old bike I ever saw was at the swap meet. I was twenty-two. It was a Harley-Davidson RL 45. I stared at it in amazement. From then on, I always looked at antique motorcycles as art in motion. I was hooked.”
Resilient Years
By shifting his focus to pre-1915 bikes, Wolfe believes he can recapture part of that pivotal moment. He explained, “They bring me back to that connection at the swap meet in Davenport.” He also hopes that his now dispersed collection will go to good homes, calling them resilient to time treasures that display the captivating characteristics only years of hiding can create.
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