It is often said that we learn more from mistakes than our triumph’s, and that certainly applies to motorcycles. Here’s a valid question – are the bikes we have the bikes we want? Really want? Laying back on the pillow, is the machine you see behind closed eyes parked in the shed? Crazy as it sounds there’s plenty of veteran riders still chasing that dream, and maybe, just maybe the search is actually the best part. Speaking from personal experience, getting what you want can clearly define the mistake of not buying what you need, so lesson learned. For years, I glossed over plain-janes like the 850T and BMW’s R90/6 before realizing what I’d missed. Sometimes, less really is more and there’s a big difference between smart and cheap. Like every motorbike, every owner is unique and as riders, we tend to gravitate towards others who share our particular passions. As it is and hopefully always will be, there’s few things in life more enjoyable than sharing, and comparing, those dreams. 

Using this idea to promote Mecum’s upcoming 2025 auction in Las Vegas, I’m smugly proud to tie together the joys of chasing that motorcycle with my friends and loved ones at a hosted event with thousands (!) of available vintage machines, breakfasts, dinners, drinks and a cozy bed in which to dream…before getting up and doing it all over again. Already establishing that my dreams may not be yours, I’ve chosen five different motorcycles in hopes that one of them hits your target. Included here are a couple old favorites and one or two newer ones. I’d recommend a visit to Mecum’s 2025 lineup and block enough time to comb through. As always, there’s some hidden gems and maybe, some new dreams.