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New Harley world first
There have probably been more world-firsts on Harley Davidsons than on bikes by any other manufacturer in the world, probably because they've been such an iconic brand since virtually the dawn of time.
It was always going to happen one day, and that one day was Saturday 28 November 2009!
The man for the job was Kain Saul, Australian Freestyle Motocross Champion, who back-flipped the 257kg XR1200 40 feet in Tooradin, South East of Melbourne, Austraila.
“I didn’t really tell too many people about this jump. I wanted to keep it on the low-down just in case things didn’t feel right, or I wasn’t feeling comfortable. Kain Saul said.
For Saul this stunt is arguably one of the most dangerous of his career. The XR1200 Harley weighs in at a massive 257kg’s; around two and a half times the weight of his regular FMX bike, a Yamaha YZ 250F. The consequences of getting a back flip of this nature wrong, would be catastrophic however Saul took the challenge and the inherent risks in his stride.
“I was actually surprised at how comfortable I felt on the bike right away. As soon as I did my first flip into the foam pit, I knew I could get it done. I was pretty nervous, but that feeling I got when I landed was just amazing; that feeling is why I love riding dirt bikes so much!” Saul said.
The modified Harley Davidson XR1200 is the brainchild of Mildura based, Quick-Fix Harley Davidson dealer principal Gavin Walker. Walker has spent close to two years planning for this moment and searching for the right rider to attempt the stunt.
“I’m just so rapt to see Sauly (Kain Saul) land the worlds first ever Harley back flip! So much work has gone into making this happen, it feels so good to finally see it pay off.” Gavin Walker said.
The future of the Harley back flip from here is uncertain however both rider and creator suggest there could be the possibility of far more amazing Harley Davidson stunts to come.
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