Description
This motorcycle is Lot 88 of Bonhams Motorcycles Online – The Summer Sale; open for bidding 5-15th June 2026. This Lot is available for public view and eventual collection from Bonhams Motorcycle Department, Milton Keynes.
Please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Bidding on all Lots commences Friday 5 June, 12:00 noon.
Bidding closes Monday 15 June, 12:00 noon, starting with Lot 1
Each subsequent Lot will then close one minute apart unless bidding remains active.
Public Viewing (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY):
All Lots:
Wednesday 10 June, 9am - 5pm
Thursday 11 June, 9am - 5pm
Please email using the button below with your availability to schedule an appointment.
Lot 88
The David Plant Collection
1981 Honda 180cc XL185 Project
Registration no. LVH 392W
Frame no. JHML185S5102554
Engine no. L185SE-5102564
Honda's long line of successful off-road models commenced in 1972 with the launch of the SL250 trail bike, though the nomenclature soon changed to the more familiar XL250. The XL's single-cylinder four-stroke engine was typically Honda, being an all-alloy, four-valve unit, and this was housed in a robust cradle-type frame. The XL trail range was greatly expanded in 1974 with the arrival of models in 125, 175 and 350cc capacities, the smaller duo having two-valve 'heads. An update of the XL175, the XL185 version first appeared in the 1979 range and would remain listed until 1990.
Our vendor purchased this XL185 in 1998 from Steven Sedgwick of Halifax, who is recorded as the owner from 5th June 1981. According to the accompanying V5C and old-style V5, there were two previous keepers. The machine was last taxed until 31st March 2008 and would make a good restoration project (the engine turns over). The current odometer reading is 2, 912 miles. The frame number matches the HPI, although the latter does not record the 'JHM' prefix.
Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/ or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
£800 - 1, 400
All lots are sold ‘as is/ where is’ and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
