Most Miles On A Motorcycle In One Day
Motorcycle riding is an enjoyable experience that provides a sense of freedom and adventure. For some riders, the thrill of motorcycle riding goes beyond the norm, and they take on the challenge of breaking records. One such record is the most miles on a motorcycle in one day. This feat requires a rider to endure long hours on the saddle, battling fatigue and harsh weather conditions to achieve the ultimate goal. In this article, we will delve into the history of this record, some of the riders who have attempted it and succeeded, and what it takes to break this record.
The History of the Most Miles on a Motorcycle in One Day Record
The history of the most miles on a motorcycle in one day record dates back to the early 1900s. The record has been held by various riders, and it has changed hands multiple times. The first person to set the record was George Brough in 1920, who rode a Brough Superior SS 100 from London to Edinburgh and back, covering 1,620 miles in 24 hours. This was an impressive achievement, considering the state of the roads and the technology available at the time.
Since then, the record has been broken many times, with each rider surpassing the previous record. In 1930, Cannonball Baker set a new record by covering 1,433 miles in 24 hours on a Harley-Davidson. This record stood for over 20 years until Joe Petrali broke it in 1951 by covering 1,840 miles in 24 hours on an Indian motorcycle. The record changed hands a few more times before being broken by Dave Zien in 1998, who rode a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic for 2,482 miles in 24 hours.
Today, the record stands at 3,885.3 miles in 24 hours, set by Carl Reese in 2017 on a BMW K1600GT. This record is a testament to the endurance and skill of the riders who attempt to break it.
Some of the Riders Who Have Attempted and Succeeded in Breaking the Record
Breaking the most miles on a motorcycle in one day record is not an easy feat. It requires a combination of physical and mental endurance, riding skills, and a well-maintained motorcycle. Here are some of the riders who have attempted and succeeded in breaking the record.
Carl Reese
Carl Reese is the current record holder for the most miles on a motorcycle in one day. He achieved this feat in 2017, riding a BMW K1600GT for 3,885.3 miles in 24 hours. Reese is an experienced rider, having completed various long-distance rides, including crossing the United States from coast to coast in just over 38 hours.
Dave Zien
Dave Zien is a former US Senator who broke the record in 1998 by riding a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic for 2,482 miles in 24 hours. Zien is an avid rider and has completed various long-distance rides, including riding to all 50 states in the US.
Jay Allen
Jay Allen is a well-known motorcycle builder and rider who broke the record in 2008 by covering 2,715 miles in 24 hours on a Harley-Davidson Road Glide. Allen is a seasoned rider and has completed various long-distance rides, including riding from New York to Los Angeles in 50 hours.
What It Takes to Break the Record
Breaking the most miles on a motorcycle in one day record is no easy feat. It requires a combination of physical and mental endurance, riding skills, and a well-maintained motorcycle. Here are some of the factors that riders need to consider when attempting to break the record.
Physical and Mental Endurance
Endurance is a critical factor when attempting to break the record. Riders need to be physically fit and mentally prepared to endure long hours on the saddle. The human body can only take so much, and riders need to take breaks to rest, eat and rehydrate to avoid fatigue, dehydration, and other health complications.
Riding Skills
Riding skills are also essential when attempting to break the record. Riders need to be able to maintain a consistent speed, handle the motorcycle in all weather and road conditions, and navigate through different terrains. They also need to be able to adapt to changing conditions and make quick decisions to avoid accidents.
Well-Maintained Motorcycle
The motorcycle is another critical factor when attempting to break the record. It needs to be in excellent condition, with all the necessary maintenance done before the ride. The motorcycle needs to be able to withstand long hours of use, high speeds, and varying weather and road conditions.
Conclusion
The most miles on a motorcycle in one day record is a testament to the endurance and skills of the riders who attempt to break it. It requires a combination of physical and mental endurance, riding skills, and a well-maintained motorcycle. While breaking the record is no easy feat, it is a rewarding experience for those who achieve it. As technology and riding skills continue to improve, it will be interesting to see who will break the record next.