"We are humbled by the generosity of these two legendary bands and VH1 Classic's commitment to raising awareness and funding for autism," says Peter Bell, president and CEO of Cure Autism Now.
Beginning today, VH1 Classic will air promos about the auction showing Neal Schon of Journey and Joe Elliott of Def Leppard test-driving the bike. As the sponsor of the current Def Leppard/Journey tour, VH1 Classic will also include auction signage at each of the concert venues during upcoming tour stops.
"VH1 Classic is happy to harness the power of these two iconic bands and Arlen Ness Motorcycles to help drive awareness and research of this rapidly growing disorder," says Eric Sherman, senior vice president and general manager, VH1 Classic and VH1 Digital Networks.
The bands are equally excited about this unique fundraiser, which enables them to lend their voices to the fight against autism.
"The custom Journey/Def Leppard bike that Arlen Ness Motorcycles created is one bad-ass, wicked-mean bike with all the frills and best parts that money can buy. A lucky fan will own this bad boy in just a few weeks. Best of all, the money is going to Cure Autism Now," says Neal Schon of Journey.
"I concur with Neal that this is not just a bike but an absolute work of art ... some lucky person is going to own this bike and I will be forever jealous of the fact that it won't be me! But I will take some comfort in the knowledge that the money we raise will be going to such a worthy cause," says Joe Elliot of Def Leppard.
Cory Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles, who worked with Schon and Elliott on the design of the bike, was thrilled to have the opportunity to create both a tribute to these legendary musicians and a first-class cruiser.
"It was an honor and privilege to build a motorcycle for these rock icons. Neal Schon and Joe Elliott not only rock, they know how to design a motorcycle," said designer Cory Ness. "This bike not only rocks, it rolls! Someone is going to own a piece of history."
Cure Autism Now
