Bikes at Bonneville World of Speed 2008
For those who have never make the pilgrimage to the Bonneville Salt Flats,
aka the Mecca for Motorheads,
I feel a great deal of sorrow. The drivers and mechanics were some of the nicest
people I ever met and
typically happy to tell you about their machines and histories.
Here are some of the "motorcycles".
This is what you see at the "start line" with about 7 miles of salt ahead of
you. You can run any vehicle you
want (aside from a rental car) for membership in the 125 mph club and the 150
mph club. I think this guy
was a genuine competitor but I don't remember which class.
When you arrive, they give you a little sheet which explains the different
classes, the names of that year's
competitors and the speed they're trying to break.
You're responsible for any spills on the salt. This bike was clearly a traditional leaker.
Who's ready to try this Moto Guzzi?
Notice the little red lanyard atop the tank. It's for an ignition cutoff in
case you get tossed. Guessing by the
lanyard and full leathers, he's aiming for 200+ mph. Double-ton, anyone?
Another serious competitor. Imagine riding this to your local meet-up. Clip-ons
and rearsets qualify, right?
Click here to
see a video of this and two other bikes taking off.
Most of the vehicles (like this one) use GPS units as part of their own data collection.
Powered street luges are becoming very popular. How about 125 mph with skateboard wheels?
Here's the business end. Note the GPS on the left side.
Harley with a nitrous boost, skimming a mere 6" above the salt. They reached the 150 club.
Close-up. Please have your boarding pass ready.
No idea what this thing is, but it sports a supercharger. Seriously.
Serious boost and a little girder front suspension. Note the wallet and chain on his pants.
I have no idea how fast this 'Busa-powered kart went, but I'd love to try it myself.
Obviously not a bike, but I could resist showing "Ye Olde Dragon" getting ready for a 190 mph attempt.
Linked Cummins diesels pumped by a pair of Garrett Research turbos. Click here to see a video of it.
