Legendary Motorcycle That Broke 300 MPH Barrier to Be Auctioned

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A historic motorcycle designed and driven by legendary American racer Don Vesco, which became the first to break the 300 mph barrier in 1975, is set to be auctioned off in Arizona next month. The striking, aircraft-shaped streamliner will be sold at no reserve, meaning it will go to the highest bidder.

Why it matters

Vesco's motorcycle achievements, including setting multiple land speed records, earned him induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the Motorsports Hall of Fame. The auction of this record-breaking vehicle represents a rare opportunity for collectors to own a piece of motorsports history.

The details

The 1975 Vesco Racing Silver Bird Lightning Bolt Streamliner was built specifically for racing on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Powered by two Yamaha TZ750 engines, it set an international record of 303 mph in 1975, becoming the first motorcycle to break the 300 mph barrier. In 1978, Vesco transformed the same motorcycle into the Lightning Bolt, swapping the engines for two Kawasaki 1000cc engines, and set a new record of 318.6 mph, a mark that stood for 12 years.

• In 1975, the Silver Bird set an international record of 303 mph, becoming the first motorcycle to break the 300 mph barrier.
• In 1978, Vesco transformed the motorcycle into the Lightning Bolt, setting a new record of 318.6 mph, which stood for 12 years.

What’s next

The 1975 Vesco Racing Silver Bird Lightning Bolt Streamliner will be auctioned off at Mecum Glendale at State Farm Stadium from March 17 to 21, with gates opening at 8 a.m. PT each day.