Steve McQueen’s 1926 Excelsior Super X Motorcycle Is Heading

Steve McQueen, the “King of Cool,” was as legendary for his passion for motorcycles as he was for his acting career. His collection of bikes symbolized his love for speed, adventure, and rebellion, making each of his motorcycles a piece of cinematic and motorcycling history. Among these, the 1926 Excelsior Super X stands out for its historical significance, rarity, and connection to one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures. Now, this classic motorcycle is heading to auction, drawing the attention of collectors, enthusiasts, and fans worldwide.

This article explores the history, features, provenance, and significance of the 1926 Excelsior Super X, as well as what makes this particular motorcycle a coveted piece of memorabilia.

A Brief History of the Excelsior Super X

The Excelsior Motor Manufacturing & Supply Company, based in Chicago, was a prominent American motorcycle manufacturer during the early 20th century. The Super X, introduced in the mid-1920s, was notable for several reasons:

Innovation: The Super X was one of the first American motorcycles to feature a chain-driven overhead valve engine, setting it apart from many contemporaries that relied on flathead engines.
Performance: Its 61 cubic inch V-twin engine delivered superior torque and reliability, making it a favorite among racing enthusiasts.
Design: The motorcycle combined classic vintage styling with practical engineering, featuring a rigid frame, springer front fork, and minimalist fenders.

By 1926, the Excelsior Super X had earned a reputation as a well-built, high-performance motorcycle, appealing to both casual riders and racers. Its historical and mechanical significance makes it highly sought after by collectors today.

Steve McQueen and His Love for Motorcycles

Steve McQueen’s passion for motorcycles was legendary. Known for performing many of his own stunts in films such as The Great Escape, McQueen rode a variety of bikes throughout his life, from Triumphs and Husqvarnas to his personal Excelsior Super X.

Racing Career: McQueen participated in off-road races, including desert competitions and scrambles, often pushing motorcycles to their limits.
Collection: His motorcycle collection was extensive, reflecting both vintage classics and modern performance machines.
Cultural Icon: McQueen’s motorcycles became symbols of freedom, rebellion, and adventure, inspiring generations of riders and filmmakers.

The Excelsior Super X is particularly significant because it represents McQueen’s early connection to motorcycling, long before he became a Hollywood icon. Owning this bike is like owning a piece of his personal history and American motorcycling heritage.

Features of the 1926 Excelsior Super X

The 1926 Excelsior Super X is a remarkable example of early American motorcycle engineering. Key features include:

Engine: 61 cubic inch (1,000cc) V-twin, chain-driven overhead valves
Transmission: Three-speed hand-shift gearbox, typical of motorcycles from the 1920s
Frame: Rigid steel frame with springer front fork
Brakes: Drum brakes, providing basic stopping power for the era
Design Aesthetics: Vintage styling with minimalist fenders, large spoked wheels, and a classic fuel tank design

These features make the Super X both mechanically impressive for its time and visually striking, combining function and form in a way that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Provenance and Historical Significance

The provenance of this particular Super X adds to its value and allure:

Ownership: Owned by Steve McQueen, giving it direct connection to Hollywood history.
Rarity: Few 1926 Excelsior Super X motorcycles survive today, and even fewer with documented celebrity ownership.
Condition: Restored or preserved carefully, maintaining its vintage authenticity while ensuring mechanical integrity.

The combination of rarity, historical significance, and celebrity provenance makes this bike a prime candidate for high-profile auctions and a centerpiece for any collection.

Auction Details and Market Impact

Classic motorcycles with celebrity provenance often command significant sums at auction, and the Excelsior Super X is expected to follow this trend:

Auction House: High-end auction houses specializing in vintage motorcycles and celebrity memorabilia
Expected Price: Potentially several hundred thousand dollars, depending on bidders and historical interest
Market Appeal: Attracts motorcycle collectors, film memorabilia enthusiasts, and investors seeking rare, historically significant items

The sale of McQueen’s Excelsior Super X not only represents a financial opportunity but also ensures the motorcycle’s story continues to be celebrated and preserved for future generations.

Why Collectors Are Excited

Several factors make this auction highly anticipated:

Celebrity Ownership: McQueen’s personal connection adds a layer of cultural and historical significance.
Vintage Engineering: The Super X is a mechanically and aesthetically significant motorcycle from the 1920s.
Rarity: Few surviving examples, especially with provenance, make this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Cultural Icon: Owning this motorcycle is akin to owning a piece of American film and motorcycling history.
Investment Potential: Rare, celebrity-owned motorcycles often appreciate in value, attracting collectors and investors alike.

For collectors, the Super X offers more than performance or aesthetics—it offers a story and a connection to one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures.

Preserving Motorcycle History

Auctions like this play a critical role in preserving and celebrating motorcycling heritage:

Historical Education: Showcases early American motorcycle design and engineering.
Cultural Significance: Highlights the intersection of Hollywood and motorcycling culture.
Collector Engagement: Encourages enthusiasts to maintain, restore, and document vintage motorcycles.

By putting McQueen’s Excelsior Super X into the hands of passionate collectors, the legacy of both the motorcycle and its famous owner continues to inspire new generations.

Conclusion

The auction of Steve McQueen’s 1926 Excelsior Super X represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of cinematic and motorcycle history. This motorcycle is more than a vintage machine—it is a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the rebellious spirit that McQueen embodied throughout his life.

With its unique design, mechanical significance, and celebrity provenance, the Super X is a must-have for collectors, enthusiasts, and fans of Hollywood and motorcycles alike. As it heads to auction, the excitement and anticipation highlight the enduring fascination with Steve McQueen and the timeless allure of classic motorcycles.

The sale ensures that this iconic machine will continue to be celebrated, preserved, and admired, reminding the world of McQueen’s legacy both on the silver screen and on two wheels.

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