Evel Knievel’s legacy lives on through the daring feats he accomplished on two wheels, captivating motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide. As a Motorcycle Hall of Fame American, he was the mastermind behind over 75 awe-inspiring ramp-to-ramp jumps, cementing his place in the annals of motorcycle history. Notably, he achieved these daring stunts astride a Harley-Davidson XR750, an iconic motorcycle that became synonymous with his incredible feats. Riding the XR750 for six years, from 1970 to 1976, Knievel even set a world record by jumping over an astounding 19 cars—a record that remained unchallenged for 27 years until another Harley XR750, piloted by Bubba Blackwell, soared over 20 cars.
Evel Knievel’s enduring legacy continues to inspire custom motorcycle builds that pay homage to his extraordinary career. One of the latest tributes comes from the Spanish custom garage, Lord Drake, in the form of the “Harley-Davidson Evel Knievel.”
This extraordinary custom build, christened in honor of the legendary stuntman, has a unique origin story. It was not originally an XR750 but began its journey as a 2005 Sportster. Commissioned by a French client in 2018, this remarkable motorcycle retains its charm and continues to grace the streets, a living tribute to Evel Knievel.
Drawing inspiration from another Lord Drake creation, the “Soulbreaker,” the “Evel Knievel” boasts a scrambler-style design that seamlessly captures the essence of the American daredevil’s thrilling performances. The standout feature of this build is undoubtedly its striking paint job, which pays homage to the United States with the colors of the American flag, Evel Knievel’s iconic signature, and the number “1” that unmistakably signifies its dedication to the stuntman’s memory.
However, the paintwork is just one facet of the extensive modifications made to transform this Sportster into a scrambler. From the peanut-shaped fuel tank to the suspension system, virtually every element has been thoughtfully customized. The motorcycle’s wheels have been upgraded to 19 inches at the front and 18 inches at the rear, both fitted with bespoke steel fenders.
Underneath the custom paintwork, the engine remains the original Sportster powerplant. However, several aftermarket enhancements boost its performance. These include an aftermarket air filter, a Vance & Hines exhaust system, and a chain conversion. The bike relies on DNA hardware for its braking power.
While the “Harley-Davidson Evel Knievel” may not be an XR750, its design and aesthetics capture the spirit of the legendary stuntman. It exudes the charisma and boldness that characterized Evel Knievel’s larger-than-life persona, making it a fitting tribute to the icon. While it may not be destined for daring jumps over rows of parked cars, it undoubtedly turns heads and stands as a remarkable homage to an unforgettable legend.
