Most Miles Ever Put On A Motorcycle
Motorcycles are some of the most versatile vehicles on the road. They are fast, nimble, and fuel-efficient, making them perfect for long trips. But who holds the record for the most miles ever put on a motorcycle? In this article, we will explore the history of long-distance motorcycle riding and the riders who have pushed the limits.
The Early Days of Long-Distance Riding
The first long-distance motorcycle ride was completed in 1903 by George Wyman. He rode a 1902 California Motorcycle Company Model B from San Francisco to New York City in 50 days. This ride was a significant achievement at the time and helped popularize motorcycle touring.
In the years that followed, many riders attempted long-distance rides, but few were successful. The roads were rough, and the bikes were unreliable. It wasn't until the 1930s that long-distance motorcycle riding began to gain traction.
The Iron Butt Association
The Iron Butt Association was founded in 1984 by Bill Barnes and Carl Reese. The organization's goal was to promote safe, long-distance motorcycle riding and recognize riders who completed challenging rides.
One of the Iron Butt Association's most famous rides is the Iron Butt Rally, a 11-day endurance ride that covers over 11,000 miles. The first Iron Butt Rally was held in 1984, and since then, it has become one of the most prestigious long-distance motorcycle events in the world.
The Guinness World Record
The Guinness World Record for the most miles ever put on a motorcycle is held by Danell Lynn. In 2015, she rode her 2006 Triumph Bonneville T100 over 48,600 miles through all 50 states in the US, breaking the previous record of 49 states held by Stephanie Jeavons.
Lynn's journey took her 18 months to complete, and she documented her trip on social media. Her ride was not only a personal achievement but also a fundraiser for the charity Shelter to Soldier, which provides service dogs to veterans.
Other Notable Long-Distance Riders
While Danell Lynn holds the Guinness World Record, she is not the only rider to complete a long-distance journey. Here are some other notable long-distance riders:
- Ted Simon – rode a Triumph Tiger 100 from London to Sydney and back in 1973-1977, covering over 78,000 miles
- Emilio Scotto – rode a Honda Gold Wing GL1000 around the world from 1985-1995, covering over 457,000 miles
- Carl Reese – rode a BMW K1600GTL from Los Angeles to New York City in 38 hours and 49 minutes in 2015, setting a new record for the fastest transcontinental ride
Tips for Long-Distance Riding
Long-distance motorcycle riding can be challenging and exhausting. Here are some tips to make your journey more comfortable:
- Get plenty of rest before your trip
- Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods
- Take breaks every 100 miles or so to stretch your legs and rest your eyes
- Dress in layers to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions
- Invest in a comfortable seat and good quality riding gear
- Plan your route and make sure you have a GPS or map to guide you
Conclusion
Long-distance motorcycle riding is not for everyone, but for those who enjoy it, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. From George Wyman's historic ride in 1903 to Danell Lynn's Guinness World Record in 2015, riders have been pushing the limits of what is possible on a motorcycle for over a century. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting, remember to stay safe and have fun on your next long-distance journey.