Red Bull New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump
Red Bull is known for its extreme sports events that push the boundaries of what is possible. Among them, the New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump stands out as one of the most thrilling and adrenaline-fueled stunts ever performed. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the history of this event, the most impressive jumps, and the riders who made them possible.
How it All Started
The Red Bull New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump started in 2007 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The concept was simple: to jump a motorcycle as far as possible over a gap between two ramps. The event was held at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino and broadcasted live on ESPN.
The first edition of the event was won by Trigger Gumm, who jumped 145 feet on a Harley-Davidson XR1200. The following year, Robbie Maddison broke the world record by jumping 322 feet on a Honda CR500. The event quickly gained popularity, attracting thousands of spectators and millions of viewers around the world.
The Most Impressive Jumps
Over the years, the Red Bull New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump has seen some of the most impressive jumps in the history of extreme sports. Here are some of the most memorable ones:
Robbie Maddison - 2008
As mentioned earlier, Robbie Maddison broke the world record in 2008 by jumping 322 feet on a Honda CR500. The jump was a remarkable achievement that cemented Maddison's status as one of the greatest riders of all time.
Levi LaVallee - 2011
In 2011, Levi LaVallee attempted a double backflip on a snowmobile, becoming the first rider to ever land the trick in a competition. The jump was a testament to LaVallee's skills and the progression of the sport.
Travis Pastrana - 2017
In 2017, Travis Pastrana paid tribute to Evel Knievel by replicating three of his most famous jumps in one night. Pastrana first jumped over 52 crushed cars, then over 16 buses, and finally over the fountain at Caesars Palace. The jumps were a fitting homage to Knievel and a demonstration of Pastrana's fearlessness.
The Daring Riders
The Red Bull New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump would not be possible without the daring riders who put their lives on the line to perform these stunts. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Robbie Maddison
Robbie Maddison is one of the most accomplished riders in the history of the Red Bull New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump. He has won the event twice and holds the world record for the longest jump. Maddison is known for his innovative approach to the sport and his willingness to take risks.
Travis Pastrana
Travis Pastrana is another legendary rider who has left his mark on the Red Bull New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump. He has won the event three times and has performed some of the most daring stunts in its history. Pastrana is known for his versatility and his ability to push the limits of what is possible.
Vicki Golden
Vicki Golden is one of the few female riders who have competed in the Red Bull New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump. She has made history by becoming the first woman to jump a full-size dirt bike over 60 feet. Golden is an inspiration to many young riders and a testament to the inclusivity of the sport.
Conclusion
The Red Bull New Year's Eve Motorcycle Jump is a thrilling and awe-inspiring event that showcases the best of extreme sports. From its humble beginnings in Las Vegas to its worldwide popularity, the event has become a symbol of courage and determination. As we look forward to the next edition, we can only imagine what new heights riders will reach and what new records they will break.
