Land Speed Racing Harley-Davidsons at Bonneville
Harley Davidson at the 2017 Bonneville Salt Flats.
1. The Bonneville Allure
One look at the stunning beauty of the Bonneville Flats and you can immediately appreciate it for what it is, a unique natural wonder that invites the imagination to wonder. If you are a speed enthusiast, however, then your outlook on this natural beauty might just imagination wonder in a different direction.
2. Almost Unrecognizable
At first glance, many of the motorcycles at Bonneville are hard to make out. Note the pushrods on this heavily modified Harley Davidson which make it easy to identify. While the avid HOG enthusiast might make it out right away, others might have to look closer, much closer to differentiate between brands. Still, the classic Harley Davidson V Twin engine is unlike any other.
3. All Are Welcome
All drivers and riders are welcome to show their stuff at the yearly Bonneville event. Of course, one has to register, pass safety inspections and be prepared to meet all the rules and standards set forth by the AMA. Needless to say one has to be an AMA member if you intend to actually run for any speed record.
4. The Fastest Open Bike On The Salt
Hiro Koiso, riding his very own build, a 2006 FXD-I HD with a JIMS 135 TWIN CAM engine with 378 horses at the rear wheel. The speed record for the 2500 cc class was set at 216.818 mph breaking the previously standing 2013 record of 177.539 mph.
5 Not One To Be Left Behind
In addition to the Japanese competition, Indian motorcycles entered "The Spirit of Munro" named by Burt Munro who set the 1967 record on an Indian motorcycle at 183.59 mph. The original "Munro" bike which was built with 1920's engineering set this record in the 1000cc class, therefore the Spirit of Munro did not set out to beat that record. Instead, the Indian motorcycle arrived at the Salt Flats chasing 200 mph in the 1350cc category. After a few tuning runs and adjusting air pressure to the rear tire, the Spirit of Murno crossed the Salt at 191.285 mph.
6. Growing Popularity
For over a century now, the Bonneville Salt Flats have been used to test the limits of any machine on wheels, the determination of the daredevils who venture there, and pushes both individuals and racing teams alike to up the ante every year. Bonneville also provides professionals and amateurs with the opportunity to experience a thrill like no other, and sometimes even set a new record.
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