This original Brooks Café Racer leather jacket embodies the spirit of late-1960s to early-1970s American motorcycling — an era defined by minimalist design, durable materials, and the pursuit of speed. Produced in Detroit, Michigan, this piece reflects Brooks’ reputation for crafting jackets that balanced utility and understated style, becoming a mainstay among riders seeking both performance and presence.
Constructed from mid-weight black leather, the jacket carries a deep, naturally developed sheen, patina and lightly distressed character that speaks to decades of authentic wear. The tailored silhouette features Brooks’ signature curved front seams, high mandarin collar with branded snaps, and a clean zip-through front, offering a sleek and aerodynamic profile. Functional details include original Talon zippers, side waist adjusters, and angled hand pockets, each reinforcing the precision and durability that define Detroit-era craftsmanship.
Professionally cleaned and conditioned in-house to restore suppleness and depth while preserving the original surface finish. The leather remains strong and flexible with light creasing and subtle tonal variation throughout. All Talon zippers operate smoothly, and the lining is intact, clean, and structurally sound. Every seam holds firm, maintaining the jacket’s original fit and integrity. Overall, it presents in excellent vintage condition — wearable, collectible, and true to its legacy.
Key Identifying Features
- Late 1960s to early 1970s Brooks café racer motorcycle jacket
- Heavyweight black leather with rich, natural patina
- Original Talon zippers to arms and pockets
- Main zip replaced with YKK
- Brooks-branded collar snaps
- Distinct curved front seam design unique to Brooks Detroit production
- Side waist buckle adjusters for custom fit
- Very good vintage condition — strong, supple, and beautifully aged
Garment Measurements (Laid Flat)
- Chest (armpit to armpit): 21.5"
- Shoulders (seam to seam): 17.5"
- Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 27"
- Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 18"
- Back length (collar seam to hem): 24"
This jacket is best suited for a 40 regular chest, small frame size.
A superb example of Brooks’ Detroit-era craftsmanship — minimalist, robust, and unmistakably authentic. This café racer remains one of the most enduring silhouettes in American motorcycling history, embodying the attitude and craftsmanship that made Brooks legendary.
