When it comes to legendary daredevils, few names shine as brightly as Evel Knievel. A man known for defying death, Knievel captivated millions with his jaw-dropping motorcycle jumps in the 1970s. Yet, while his skill and bravery were unmatched, there was one constant that helped him achieve the impossible: the Harley-Davidson XR750. This bike wasn’t just a tool for his stunts – it became an icon, synonymous with Knievel’s legacy. Today, the XR750 remains one of the most coveted bikes in the world, revered for its unique role in stunt history and its incredible design.

Introduction to Evel Knievel: The Legendary Daredevil

Evel Knievel, born Robert Craig Knievel, was more than just a stunt rider; he was an entertainer, a pioneer, and a symbol of fearlessness. Throughout the 1970s, his gravity-defying jumps over buses, cars, and even canyons pushed the boundaries of what was physically possible on two wheels. Knievel’s fame transcended the world of motorsports, as he captured the imaginations of fans around the globe with his remarkable feats of strength, courage, and skill. But none of his stunts would have been possible without the perfect motorcycle. For Knievel, that bike was the Harley-Davidson XR750.

The Harley-Davidson XR750: A Stunt Jump Icon

The XR750 wasn’t designed to be a stunt bike. Originally, it was built for flat track racing. Harley-Davidson created it as a response to the changing rules of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and its competition from British manufacturers like Triumph and Norton. The XR750 featured a lightweight frame and a powerful V-twin engine, giving it the agility and responsiveness needed for flat track racing. However, its rugged design and impressive performance made it a natural choice for Evel Knievel, who needed a motorcycle that could handle the stress of his extreme jumps.

Video

Watch this thrilling video of Evel Knievel’s 1975 stunt at Kings Island, where he made the farthest successful jump at 133 feet. Don’t miss this iconic moment in stunt history!

Evel Knievel’s Relationship with the XR750

Knievel first hopped on a Harley-Davidson XR750 in 1970, and it quickly became his motorcycle of choice. His first public jump on the bike took place at the Lions Dragstrip in Los Angeles, where he successfully jumped over 13 cars. This marked the beginning of an iconic partnership that would last throughout Knievel’s career. He trusted the XR750 to carry him through some of his most daring and dangerous stunts, including the infamous jumps over buses and cars that earned him international fame.

The bike was painted in a stunning Stars and Stripes design, making it instantly recognizable to fans. The bold, American aesthetic reflected both Knievel’s personality and his connection to Harley-Davidson. With a team of mechanics led by Roger Reiman, Knievel’s XR750 was finely tuned for each of his jumps. The bike was so trusted that it became synonymous with Knievel’s name and daredevil image.

Performance and Specifications of the Harley-Davidson XR750

The XR750 was built for performance. At the heart of the bike was a 45-degree V-twin engine, originally designed for flat track racing. Its 750cc displacement and 80 horsepower allowed for impressive acceleration and top speed, which were crucial for Knievel’s high-flying stunts. The bike’s frame was constructed from lightweight materials, enabling it to handle the stresses of jumping. Despite its racing origins, the XR750 was modified to include a front brake, which was essential for Knievel’s jumps.

The bike also featured Ceriani forks and twin Girling rear shocks, which were specially designed to give the bike the stability and control needed for long jumps. In addition, Knievel’s XR750 was equipped with a fiberglass tank and tail, reducing the overall weight and improving aerodynamics. Despite the bike’s incredible power, it only had five inches of suspension travel, a fact that makes Knievel’s trust in the XR750 all the more remarkable.

Knievel’s Iconic Jumps on the XR750

Evel Knievel became a household name because of his jaw-dropping stunts, and the XR750 played a vital role in his success. One of his most iconic jumps took place in 1971 when he soared over 19 cars, covering a distance of 129 feet. It was a record-breaking jump, and it proved that the XR750 was up to the task. However, Knievel didn’t stop there – he continued to push the boundaries with jumps over buses, including a 120-foot leap over 50 stacked cars in 1973 and a 133-foot jump over 14 buses in 1975.

Each of these feats took immense preparation and skill, but the XR750’s performance gave Knievel the confidence to attempt stunts that others deemed impossible. Despite suffering numerous injuries, Knievel kept coming back for more, with the XR750 always by his side. Unfortunately, not all of his jumps went according to plan. Knievel’s most infamous stunt was his failed attempt to jump the Snake River Canyon in 1974, where he used a rocket-powered Skycycle. However, the XR750 remained his go-to bike for traditional jumps, and its reputation as a reliable stunt companion grew with each successful performance.

The Legacy of Evel Knievel’s Harley-Davidson XR750

Today, the Harley-Davidson XR750 is considered one of the most important motorcycles in history. Its association with Evel Knievel has cemented its place in the annals of stunt biking. Knievel’s accomplishments with the XR750 continue to inspire modern stunt riders, and the bike remains a symbol of bravery and defiance. The XR750’s racing legacy also endures, as it became one of the most successful bikes in AMA history, winning numerous championships.

In addition to Knievel, other stunt riders have used the XR750 to break records. Bubba Blackwell, for example, broke Knievel’s car jump record in 1998 and his bus jump record in 1999, both using an XR750. In 2008, Blackwell also surpassed Knievel’s car jump record with a jump over 52 stacked cars. The XR750’s reputation as a powerful and reliable bike continues to inspire new generations of daredevils.

Harley-Davidson XR750 Today: Collectible and Rare

The Harley-Davidson XR750 is not just a legendary stunt bike; it is also a sought-after collector’s item. Because the bike was produced in limited numbers and is no longer in production, authentic XR750s are hard to come by and can fetch substantial amounts at auction. The average sale price of an XR750 today is between $40,000 and $50,000, with some rare models fetching up to $93,500.

Collectors and enthusiasts alike value the XR750 for its historical significance and connection to Evel Knievel’s legacy. Some rare versions of the bike, such as the XRTT racer, can sell for six figures due to their low production numbers and historical importance.

Other Notable Stunt Bikes and Rivalries

While the Harley-Davidson XR750 is undoubtedly one of the most iconic stunt bikes, it wasn’t the only motorcycle Evel Knievel used throughout his career. Before he became associated with Harley-Davidson, Knievel rode several other bikes, including the Norton Commando 750, the Triumph Bonneville 650, and the Laverda/American Eagle 750. These bikes helped him build his reputation as a fearless stunt performer.

In addition to his iconic partnership with Harley-Davidson, Knievel faced competition from other stunt riders. However, the XR750 remained his bike of choice for most of his career, thanks to its performance and reliability. The bike’s success in the world of stunt riding also paved the way for other riders, such as Bubba Blackwell, to achieve new records and feats.

Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Evel Knievel and the XR750

Evel Knievel’s Harley-Davidson XR750 will forever be remembered as the bike that carried him to the height of his daredevil career. Its unique design, unmatched performance, and association with Knievel’s most memorable stunts have solidified its place in motorcycle history. The XR750 is not just a machine; it’s a symbol of bravery and the willingness to push the boundaries of human achievement. As modern stunt riders continue to push the limits of what’s possible, the XR750 remains an inspiration and a cherished part of stunt biking history.

Video

Check out this intense video featuring the Honda CR500, Harley Davidson XR750, and KX500 in a pro hill climb at Monson, Mass. Watch to see which bike conquers the climb!