A man of many talents, Steve McQueen was not only a movie legend but also an avid and very talented motorcycle racer. Much like his movie characters, the "King of Cool" loved adventure and living his life in the fast lane. He owned over 200 motorcycles and used to enter races under the pseudonym Harvey Mushman.
But though his extensive collection included iconic Harleys, Triumphs, and Husqvarnas, it was a desert racer from a little-known British brand that was his favorite. As per various reports, McQueen was particularly fond of his Rickman Métisse Desert Racer, which he customized with his stuntman pal Bud Ekins using the most rugged components available at the time and then described as "the best handling bike I've ever owned."
McQueen's off-roading bike was based on a 1966 Méttise Mk III, a light, strong, and elegant motocross model that was already a serious performer before the actor/racing driver put his hands on it, having scored important racing wins, such as multiple victories at Motocross des Nations and several Grands Prix.
In 2010, after long negotiations with the USA-based McQueen Estate, Métisse started manufacturing a limited-edition modern replica of Steve McQueen's 1967 original desert racer to offer a select few the opportunity to experience the unique and iconic motorcycle. Called the Métisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer, the replica was meticulously handcrafted by Métisse Motorcycles in Oxfordshire, England, in collaboration with Chad McQueen, Steve McQueen's son, and Dave Ekins, Bud Ekins' brother.
Photo: Collecting Cars
Only 300 examples were produced to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the King of Cool's death, and one of them has come up for sale, offered by its third owner.
A faithful copy of the original Rickman Brothers-developed and McQueen-customized motorcycle that the actor used for desert racing duties in Southern California, the modern Métisse motorcycle features all the modifications that distinguish McQueen's Desert racer from a stock Mk3. As such, the motorcycle features a hand-made nickel-plated chromoly frame, 35mm Ceriani forks mounted in BSA yokes up front, Girling replica shock absorbers at the rear, a single-sided Triumph front hub, and box section footrests.
A Rickman fiberglass body kit finished in Battleship Gray (the actor's favorite color) completes the vintage look. It consists of an eight-liter fuel tank, a front fender, a seat, a rear cowl, and dual side covers. A distinctive feature that makes this bike truly special is Steve McQueen's authorized signature on the fuel tank.
Photo: Collecting Cars
The motorcycle benefits from fully reconditioned running gear, with an original 1967 750cc Triumph parallel-twin engine that has undergone a refurbishment by a Triumph specialist. The 71mm x 82mm motor produces 47 hp at 6700 rpm and is linked to a four-speed transmission. A 7″ Triumph drum brake is fitted to the 21-inch front wheel, complemented by a smaller drum on the rear.
With 190 mm (7.5 inches) of front suspension travel and 100 mm (3.9 inches) in the rear, the bike can soften even the worst bumps and is certainly suitable for the physical demands of desert racing. Other notable features include chromed steel wheels and exhausts, a scrambler rear boot, and competition levers and grips.
It's worth mentioning that McQueen also owned and used a Triumph TR6 "Desert Sled" earlier in his racing career, which is one of the most iconic bikes of its kind. However, the Métisse, with its lighter frame and improved suspension, outhandled all rivals in its class during the 1960s, though fitted with the same engine. It's no wonder it won McQueen's heart.
The Métisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer offered for sale was initially registered for road use with the DVLA in the UK in October 2017. However, as all of the Metisse replicas, it is officially licensed as a 1967 model like McQueen's own bike.
Photo: Collecting Cars
The bike is designed for racing and is currently set up for daytime use only. However, it is offered with the optional Road Pack from Metisse, which means a headlight, horn, and rear light are included to make it street-legal and properly equip it for nighttime use. Other equipment includes a left-side gear change, an Amal single concentric-type carburetor, twin upswept chrome exhaust pipes, sprung foot-pegs, and a wireless digital clock/odometer.
According to the listing, the most recent maintenance check was conducted in January 2024 by the current owner and consisted of an engine oil change and plug check. The motorcycle is offered with just 550 miles (885 km) on the odometer, which indicates it has seldomly been ridden.
Described by the current owner as an "eye-catchingly crafted piece of engineering that not only looks and sounds amazing but rides beautifully," this Métisse Steve McQueen Desert Racer is a true gem, and given it comes up for sale only rarely, this is a good opportunity to snatch one should you wish to hit the desert like McQueen.
After spending a few years as a copy editor, Ancuta decided to put down the eraser and pick up the writer's pencil. Her favorites subjects are unusual car designs, travel trailers and everything related to the great outdoors. Full profile
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