A historic 1894 Roper Steam Motorcycle is expected to establish a new world record for a motorcycle sold at auction when it crosses the podium at Auctions America by RM’s debut Las Vegas sale, Jan. 12-14, 2012. The multi-day auction will feature an impressive docket of over 400 collector motorcycles.
The second of just two steam-powered motorcycles built by Sylvester Roper of Roxbury, Mass. — arguably one of America’s first auto manufacturers — the 117-year-old motorcycle is regarded as one of the world’s oldest, predating early examples produced by Orient, Indian and Harley-Davidson.
“We’re delighted to have been selected to present this historic motorcycle at our inaugural Las Vegas sale in January. A significant piece of Americana, it is arguably one of the world’s most important motorcycles. We anticipate strong interest in its sale,” says Glenn Bator, Head of Auctions America by RM’s Vintage Motorcycle Division.
Based on the frame of a Columbia bicycle, the Roper Steam Motorcycle’s revolutionary design features a compact rectangular boiler, burner and grate, and a small steam engine on the right side. A water tank is located directly over the boiler, from which a smoke vent exits at a rakish angle. All controls are located on the handlebars. In keeping with the true definition of a motorcycle, it was completed without pedals.
“With the only other Roper motorcycle ever built on long-term display at the Smithsonian Institution, the upcoming sale of this example presents an exclusive ownership opportunity for serious collectors,” Bator adds.
For more information about Auctions America and event details, visit www.auctionsamerica.com. 
