FBI Seizes $40 Million in Rare Motorcycles from Drug Lord’s Collection

The FBI, alongside Mexican law enforcement and the LAPD, recently raided a private warehouse to seize over $40 million worth of rare motorcycles. This collection includes one-of-a-kind racing bikes like the Ducati NCR 860 and ultra-rare models such as the Paul Smart-Edition Ducati SportClassic.

Key Takeaways

  • The raid was conducted to capture Ryan James Wedding, a drug lord on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list.
  • A bounty of $15 million is offered for information leading to his arrest through the Narcotics Rewards Program.
  • The seized collection includes rare models like the Ducati SuperMono and an Aprilia RS125R from 1996.

Among the motorcycles are several racing liveries, including a pristine yellow Ducati 748 that’s sure to turn heads. The Honda VFR750R is also present in the collection, known for its distinctive dual-headlight design and legendary performance on racetracks.

The rare Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR has already been seized by authorities as part of this operation. This car was originally designed for racing but limited production made it a highly sought-after street machine among collectors today.

Many models in the collection are extremely valuable due to their rarity and historical significance, such as the Ducati SuperMono which is incredibly hard to come by even on the collector’s market. The Aprilia RS125R represents a pivotal moment in motorcycle racing history with its innovative design and performance capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the value of the Ducati SuperMono?

The Ducati SuperMono can fetch upwards of $100,000 at auction due to its unique design and limited production run.

How many units were produced for the Paul Smart-Edition Ducati SportClassic?

This special edition was manufactured in very small numbers; only around 150 examples exist worldwide, making it a rare gem among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The raid highlights not just the financial value of these motorcycles but also their cultural significance within motorsports history. It’s unlikely this collection will ever see public auction or light again due to ongoing legal proceedings.

James Carter
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Senior Automotive Journalist

Veteran automotive journalist with over 20 years of experience covering the global car industry. Specializes in comprehensive vehicle reviews, classic car coverage, and automotive history. Has test-driven over 500 vehicles and attended major auto shows worldwide.

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