Evel Knievel Harley-Davidson XL 1000 to Bonhams Auction

Evel Knievel toys have been all the rage in the past decade, but how about an official Evel Knievel motorcycle?

Better yet, how about one Knievel rode in the iconic movie Viva Knievel? The bike – a 1976 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL 1000 – will be on the block during Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction on January 7, sharing the stage with a few machines by famed actor Steve McQueen.

Evel Knievel’s Harley was customized by Bud Ekins, the legendary stunt motorcycle rider who worked with McQueen. During Viva Knievel, Evel played himself as his character fended off Mexican drug dealers. Bonhams says the Harley XL1000 was first owned by Warner Brothers, but motorcycle was purchased from the studio after filming by Los Angeles-area Harley dealer Dick Hutchins. The bike has been displayed ever since.

Speaking of the Viva Knievel, America’s most-known daredevil Knievel said: “I came along at the right time in the right place,” said Knievel. “America was down on its ass when I came along and needed somebody who was truthful and honest, someone who would spill blood and break bones, somebody who wasn’t a phony.”

The Knievel will go on the block Thursday, January 7 at Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction held at Bally’s Hotel & Casino on The Strip. For more information, visit bonhams.com/vegas.

Evel Kneivel Harley-Davidson Sportster XL 1000 Photo Gallery