Vintage Brooks Cafe Racer

[LordOfLeather]

I spotted this Brooks cafe racer in a local vintage shop today and thought I’d share a few pics. It’s absolutely full of character but in pretty poor condition. It was my first time handling one of these, and I was impressed by how great it fit. I love the cut.

Unfortunately, I don’t own a Harley, and some previous owner put a patch on the back. I could always swap it out for a different patch, but not sure I want to tamper with the life and story of such a unique piece.

My apologies for the less-than-ideal photos. I didn’t bother with pictures, but I’m glad my wife was on top of it and took a few. What do you guys think? Is this too trashed for the $150 price tag?

View attachment IMG_3364.jpeg

 

[Bennarion]

A cool jacket with character. It suits you perfectly. It's better to leave her as she is.

You look like a Hollywood actor. Thanks for the cool photos

 

[ABCD]

What do you guys think? Is this too trashed for the $150 price tag?

Shouldn't be that difficult to find one in excellent condition for $150 - $200.

 

[Will Zach]

I think this one fits your overall look, awesome tats and all.

 

[LordOfLeather]

A cool jacket with character. It suits you perfectly. It's better to leave her as she is.

You look like a Hollywood actor. Thanks for the cool photos

Thanks!

 

[LordOfLeather]

I think this one fits your overall look, awesome tats and all.

Thanks!

I think this one fits your overall look, awesome tats and all.

Thanks!

 

[Khilij]

I spotted this Brooks cafe racer in a local vintage shop today and thought I’d share a few pics. It’s absolutely full of character but in pretty poor condition. It was my first time handling one of these, and I was impressed by how great it fit. I love the cut.

Unfortunately, I don’t own a Harley, and some previous owner put a patch on the back. I could always swap it out for a different patch, but not sure I want to tamper with the life and story of such a unique piece.

My apologies for the less-than-ideal photos. I didn’t bother with pictures, but I’m glad my wife was on top of it and took a few. What do you guys think? Is this too trashed for the $150 price tag?

View attachment 636931 View attachment 636932 View attachment 636933 View attachment 636934

You look like an absolute rockstar in that jacket!

 

[ABCD]

Here's one for 45 bucks obo

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2049729809...qkltxehtou&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

 

[LordOfLeather]

Here's one for 45 bucks obo

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2049729809...qkltxehtou&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

View attachment 637197

I wish I had seen this before it sold. Nice jacket and great deal!

 

[handymike]

$45 was a steal! @LordOfLeather the jacket looks great on you…did you note the size? These jackets can often be found for good prices without the patch.

 

[LordOfLeather]

$45 was a steal! @LordOfLeather the jacket looks great on you…did you note the size? These jackets can often be found for good prices without the patch.

Thanks!
Unfortunately, the size tag was torn off, so I’m left guessing. This makes it a bit harder to buy online. I might go back to the shop with a tape measure.

 

[BlueSteel]

I bought a late 60s/early 70s one of these in like new condition in rare size 46 off ebay in January 2022 for about $100...a steal...

 

[LordOfLeather]

I bought a late 60s/early 70s one of these in like new condition in rare size 46 off ebay in January 2022 for about $100...a steal...

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Great find! I think I will sign up for eBay alerts whenever Brooks a cafe racer is listed.

 

[Bennarion]

The one who is looking will always find

 

[AeroFan_07]

I think it looks fantastic on you. And you clearly enjoy it!

There was a large motorcycle parts/accessories/bike swap meet near my home last week. I saw many jackets in much worse condition commanding more $$$ than yours. So I do not think that is too bad of a price. It appears to be a little bit thicker leather.

 

[handymike]

Maybe you could offer the shop $120. That would be a fair price- this fits well and is ready to grab.

 

[LordOfLeather]

Thanks for your suggestions. Typically, I am drawn to jackets in new or like-new conditions, and while I know I can probably find this model in better condition for the same or less money, I have to admit part of the appeal is the aged leather. It’s the type of effect many manufacturers strive to achieve by pre-distressing their leather or producing it with a rub-off effect. But this one has clearly resulted from many years of experience. I may stop back to the shop and see if they are open to bartering. It sounds more appealing than trying to find a “better” one online. After all, I don’t need another black cafe racer. There’s just something about this one. If that makes sense.

 

[AeroFan_07]

^^ It does make sense. It's "meant for you" especially if your wife agrees!

 

[LordOfLeather]

^^ It does make sense. It's "meant for you" especially if your wife agrees!

This is the place where I’m understood.

 

[Bennarion]

I think it looks fantastic on you. And you clearly enjoy it!

There was a large motorcycle parts/accessories/bike swap meet near my home last week. I saw many jackets in much worse condition commanding more $$$ than yours. So I do not think that is too bad of a price. It appears to be a little bit thicker leather.

I also noticed that the leather is thicker on this jacket. That's why she got so old.