A motorcycle designed by Manchester United and England footballer Wayne Rooney could fetch between £40,000 and £60,000 ($62,000 to $93,000) when it is sold by Bonhams in aid of charity this week.
The 2012 Lauge Jensen cruiser-style machine, designed by the world-famous striker and custom-made by the Danish motorcycle manufacturer will go under the hammer at the Bonhams auction of Sports Memorabilia in Chester, UK, on Wednesday on behalf of KidsAid, a Danish charitable foundation that helps young people affected by illness.
The motorcycle incorporates a number of special features designed by Rooney himself. These include:
- An autographed ‘No 10’ football shirt mounted and lacquer-sealed onto the petrol tank
- A special shift rod incorporating 21 black diamonds and a white diamond
- Rear mudguard featuring artwork depicting Rooney’s celebration of his spectacular goal against Manchester City in 2011 that helped Manchester United claim that year’s Premiership title and was named ‘Best Goal’ of the season.
Wayne Rooney says: “I was really excited to have the opportunity to be involved in the design of a unique ‘Wayne Rooney’ Lauge Jensen custom bike.
“The bike we have designed takes its inspiration from the celebration of my overhead kick against Manchester City last season. The goal has been described by others as being of the highest quality and technical excellence, powerful and beautiful.
“I hope you will agree that the bike is all of this and more. The fact that the funds raised will go to kids in Denmark is a great way for me, on behalf of all the players at Manchester United, to say ‘thank you’ for the support we receive from the Danish people.”
Founded only a few years ago by established custom-bike builder Uffe Lauge Jensen, Lauge Jensen Ltd is Denmark’s first motorcycle manufacturer since Nimbus ceased production in 1959.
The Bonhams Sports Memorabilia Sale starts at 11am on Wednesday. For more information visit bonhams.com/auctions/21119.
