There are numerous crazy and extreme vintage motorcycle stories that have captivated enthusiasts over the years. Here are a few notable examples:
Cannonball Baker's Cross-Country Record: In 1914, Erwin "Cannonball" Baker set out to break the cross-country record by riding from San Diego to New York City. Riding an Indian motorcycle, Baker completed the journey in just over 11 days, covering a distance of around 3,400 miles. This feat was considered remarkable at the time and helped establish Baker as a legendary figure in motorcycle history.
The Isle of Man TT Races: The Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (TT) Races, which began in 1907, is one of the most challenging and dangerous motorcycle races in the world. The event takes place on public roads, and participants race at high speeds through narrow, winding streets and hilly terrain. The vintage era of the TT races saw incredible feats of skill and bravery, with riders pushing the limits of both themselves and their machines.
Burt Munro's Land Speed Record: Burt Munro, a New Zealand motorcycle racer, became famous for his record-breaking speed runs on his highly modified 1920 Indian Scout motorcycle. In 1967, at the age of 68, Munro set the world land speed record for motorcycles under 1,000 cc, achieving a speed of 183.586 mph (295.453 km/h) on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. Munro's story was immortalized in the 2005 film "The World's Fastest Indian."
The Motorcycle Cannonball: The Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Run is a biennial event that challenges riders to traverse long distances on vintage motorcycles. The event typically covers over 3,000 miles in a cross-country journey, testing the endurance and mechanical reliability of the participating vintage bikes. Riders encounter unpredictable weather, challenging terrains, and the constant need for maintenance and repairs along the way.
The Great Escape Jump: In the 1963 film "The Great Escape," actor Steve McQueen, a motorcycle enthusiast himself, performed a daring motorcycle jump over a barbed wire fence while attempting to evade captors. Although a stunt double performed the actual jump, McQueen's love for motorcycles and his involvement in the film helped popularize the scene and made it one of the most iconic motorcycle moments in cinema history.
These stories showcase the passion, determination, and thrill-seeking nature of vintage motorcycle enthusiasts, who are willing to push boundaries and achieve remarkable feats on their two-wheeled machines.