Batpod from Nolan films to sell for up to $1.2 million

The Batpod motorcycle from Christopher Nolan's Batman films is listed for auction with an estimate of $1.2 million. Propstore Auction is selling the vehicle, which was featured in "The Dark Knight" (2008) and "The Dark Knight Rises" (2012).

Stephen Lane, CEO of Propstore, described the bike as a major engineering challenge. The vehicle, nicknamed "The Beast," was designed by Nolan and production designer Nathan Crowley. Visual effects director Chris Corbould modified a 750cc Honda engine to power the machine, which rides on 31-inch tires.

Lane noted that the Batpod was difficult for actors and stunt drivers to handle. He cited several incidents where the vehicle lost control, including one where it hit a camera on set. Lane called it a tricky ride that required significant skill to operate practically.

This specific unit is the only one of six built that has been released by Warner Bros. Studios. Lane stated that the bike's unique aesthetic and functionality make it a highly desirable item for collectors. He called it one of the most memorable movie vehicles ever created.

The online bidding process began on Thursday and ends on December 4. The sale will conclude with a live auction in London. The Batpod is part of a larger collection of movie memorabilia being sold by Propstore.

Other items in the auction include two Batsuits. One was worn by Christian Bale in "Batman Begins" (2005), and the other by Val Kilmer in "Batman Forever." The collection also features the fedora and shirt worn by stuntman Vic Armstrong in two Indiana Jones films. Additionally, the sword used by Kit Harington in "Game of Thrones" and Freddy Krueger's glove are available. The glove already met its $34,000 reserve price shortly after the auction opened.

A public preview of more than 100 lots is scheduled for November 19 through November 22. The exhibition will be held at the Cumberland Hotel in London before the final sale date.