The Gem State Collection brings a varied group of motorcycles to Mecum’s LV Motorcycles 2027 auction at the South Point Hotel and Casino, February 3–6. The compilation of motorcycles being auctioned without reserve is focused on Hondas, though there are a few wild cards in the deck. Before we get into the Hondas of the Gem State Collection, which includes a trio of 1980s Gold Wings, four Valkyrie Runes, and many other Honda models spanning the early 1980s to the 2000s, we spoke with Jim Miklo, the man behind the impressive Gem State Collection.

Jim Miklo on The Gem State Collection

Ultimate Motorcycling: What moved you to start buying vintage motorcycles?

Jim Miklo: My grandpa and great-grandpa rode motorcycles, so I would say it runs in the family. I got my first bicycle when I was 10 and loved the feeling of the two wheels. Bought my first new Harley at the age of 18 — had to borrow $1600 from the bank, and my dad had to co-sign. Payments were $50 a month, which was a lot at that time. I thought, “If I ever get this paid off, it will be a great day!”

UM: When did it change from buying a bike here and there to creating a collection?

JM: In 1981, I started my collection with a 1981 Honda CBX 6-cylinder, brand new, which was passed on to my oldest son 45 years later. It went on from there.

UM: What is the origin of the name, The Gem State Collection?

JM: Although I spent most of my life in Iowa, I retired to Idaho in 2009. It is known as The Gem State because of its wide array of minerals, precious stones, and history of mining.

UM: Your auction is very Honda-centric. What is your personal connection to Honda motorcycles?

JM: I bought my first Gold Wing GL1000 in 1974 when they came out, new, and have been buying Gold Wings ever since because I have traveled a lot and they are so dependable. My last three Gold Wings were trikes, and I have owned Honda dirt bikes through the ’70s. I had a very good Honda dealer with whom I had a great personal relationship and could always depend on, which would be Storm Lake Honda in Iowa. Owner Larry Schultz became a very good, lifelong friend.

UM: Besides the four sidecar setups you’re selling, is there anything else unusual?

JM: I’ve also been interested in finding rare items, and my 2015 Indian Chief Vintage is one of those. It’s a one-of-one, yellow-and-white, custom-painted by the Indian dealership.

UM: Has The Gem State Collection ever been publicly presented before the auction?

JM: No, but over the years, by word of mouth, I’ve had many visitors.

UM: What has prompted you to sell The Gem State Collection?

JM: Due to age and some health issues, I decided it was time to let someone else enjoy them.

UM: Are there any holdbacks that you can’t part with?

JM: The 2013 Honda Gold Wing F6B because my wife and I can both ride it. It’s very easy to handle, is comfortable, and can go fast! Now, we ride a Can-Am Spyder RT Limited.

UM: Do you intend to stop collecting motorcycles, or are you looking to start from scratch with a new collection?

JM: Maybe, but don’t tell my wife that, but she likes motorcycles, too.

Here are some highlights of The Gem State Collection that will be available for bidding at Mecum LV Motorcycles 2027:

2004 Honda Valkyrie Rune

The 2004 Valkyrie Rune is one of Honda’s most outrageous production models. Unforgettable styling, exotic front suspension, and an 1832cc flat-6 motor make it a factory custom like no other. Two 2004 Runes are up for sale, one in Double Clearcoat Black and the other in Illusion Blue.

2005 Honda Valkyrie Rune

Jim couldn’t get enough of the Rune, so he acquired a matching pair of 2005 editions. Your choice of colors is Candy Black Cherry and another Illusion Blue.

2000 Honda GL1500CT Valkyrie Tourer

Powered by a 1520cc flat-6, this is a touring cruiser version of the fully dressed Gold Wing. There are no bags, fairing, or windshield on this Valkyrie Tourer, but that won’t stop the dedicated rider from putting on serious mileage.

1983 Honda GL1100 Gold Wing

This 1085cc flat-4 has served as the template for modern touring with a full fairing, side cases, and top box. The 1983 Gold Wing helped Honda dominate the motorcycle touring market in the 1980s. With just 11,098 miles on this long-distance runner, it has plenty of miles left in it.

1984 Honda GL1200 Gold Wing

If you’re looking for something a bit newer with even fewer miles on it, this Gold Wing is lighter duty, with a windshield instead of a fairing.

1984 Honda GL1200 Gold Wing

Stripped down for everyday riding, this GL1200 eschews any touring accoutrements. It’s a return to the original Gold Wing, which was considered a superbike of its time.

1974 BMW R90/6 Custom Sidecar

You don’t see something like this every day. Painted fire engine red and powered by an 898cc boxer twin, the R90/6 is decked out with a sidecar, so you can take it with you. The Gem State Collection is also offering three more sidecar outfits: a 1979 Moto Guzzi V1000, a 1981 Harley-Davidson FLH Heritage Edition, and a 1986 Yamaha V-Max.

How to Bid on The Gem State Collection

To bid on the motorcycles in The Gem State Collection, register as a bidder with Mecum before or during the auction. You can place bids in person at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, online through Mecum’s bidding platform, or by telephone. Registration is required for any method, and bidder packages include admission for you and a guest. Advance registration is recommended so credentials can be mailed ahead of time. For full details, registration options, or help, visit Mecum.com or call 262-275-5050.