Kevin Keegan’s Harley-Davidson raises thousands for cancer charity days after his death
A Harley-Davidson motorcycle once owned by football legend Kevin Keegan has sold at auction for just over £35,000 just days after he passed away aged 75.
Priced at £35,075 to be exact, the 1990 Sportster boasts a unique bespoke livery.
This design was personally commissioned by “King Kev” and is inspired by his iconic tenure at Newcastle United, originally purchased from a dealer in the city.
Its distinctive history includes a period on display at the Newcastle Breweries Museum before later being placed on a custom-made plinth in Keegan’s own home office.
Based on the XLH 1200 Sportster, the motorcycle features several modifications including special towbars, billet arms and a shortened fender.
The bike was recently recommissioned by Engine Restoration experts and is reported to be in excellent condition with new tyres.
Keegan had asked H&H Classics to sell the motorcycle five months earlier, and the winning bidder was a British businessman based in America.
The company said some of the proceeds from the sale will be donated to a cancer charity, believed to be Cancer Research UK.
H&H Classics’ senior motorcycle specialist Mike Davis said: “You could feel the passion from the bidders who were keen to show their appreciation for one of this country’s greatest ever footballers.”
Keegan, who played for Liverpool in the 1970s before becoming a player and manager at Newcastle, was being treated for stage four cancer.
Keegan’s death, announced on Monday, prompted tributes from across the football community to the former Scunthorpe, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle frontman.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe laid flowers outside St James’ Park, surrounded by scores of fans who gathered at the ground to remember Keegan.
Newcastle and Liverpool are discussing how best to mark Keegan’s life when they meet in the opening match of the new Premier League season on Sunday 23 August.
Both Tyneside and Merseyside have paid tribute to the former England striker and both clubs will come together to do the same as the new season gets underway.
Newcastle will also consult Keegan’s family when considering options for a permanent memorial.
