2008 Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer replica heads to auction

This 2008 Metisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer replica, believed to be the first model of its kind that was made available to the public, is now up for sale. 

The limited-edition run was approved by the McQueen estate, with the first model of the 300 acquired by McQueen’s son, Chad McQueen. 

But this particular bike is claimed to be #002, which was first registered with the DVLA in 2012, according to the listing from Collecting Cars. It has also had five registered keepers since its launch.

Power comes from a 649cc single carburettor-fed ‘TR6’ four-stroke parallel twin engine, which produces 47bhp, and is mated to a four-speed gearbox. Despite being nearly 20 years old, the bike’s odometer shows just shy of 2,000 miles. 

It is also said to be “identical to the original McQueen Desert Racer”, with each limited-edition model finished in Battleship Grey colourway. 

The iconic motorcycle is also equipped with Ceriani-style forks that are mounted in BSA yokes, a single-sided Triumph front hub, box section footrests and an additional fuel tank. The extra fuel tank is mounted where the headlight would normally be.   

The McQueen Desert Racer was based upon the Metisse Mk3 that was first raced in the 1960s. However, the Desert Racer was modified to suit Steve McQueen, as well as the demands of racing off-road. 

Alongside the bike will be a Certificate of Authenticity from Metisse, as well as a copy of ‘Derek & Don Rickman, The Metisse Story’ by David Gittins. This has been signed by both of the Rickman brothers, who were successful motocross racers, and the book’s author.

The bike’s highest bid is currently £9,050, with the auction ending in just four days. More information about the bike can be found on the official Collecting Cars website.

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