Before achieving fame in aeronautics, Glenn Curtiss started his career with motorcycles. The early aviation community began to seek out Curtiss because of his growing reputation for designing powerful, lightweight motorcycle engines. In 1906 he designed his first V-8 engine in response to several requests from early aeronautical experimenters.

As a manufacturer and racer of motorcycles, it was only natural for Curtiss to wonder how fast he could move on a motorcycle with his V-8. He instructed his workers to construct a frame that could support the weight of the engine. The Curtiss V-8 was air-cooled, producing approximately 30 to 40 horsepower at 1,800 rpm. The motorcycle used direct drive because a conventional chain-and-belt transmission could not withstand the power of the massive engine. Curtiss took the motorcycle to the Florida Speed Carnival at Ormond Beach in January 1907. He recorded a record-setting speed of 218 kph (136 mph) during his run. He was dubbed "the fastest man on Earth."

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Date

1907

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

CRAFT-Miscellaneous

Manufacturer

CURTISS,HAMMONDSPORT,N.Y.

Physical Description

Motorcyle with Curtiss V-8 aircooled engine, 30-40 horsepower. Black overall with white tires.

Dimensions

2" x 1" x 1"

Materials

Frame: Steel Tubing
Tires: Rubber

Inventory Number

A19520060006

Credit Line

Gift of the Curtiss-Wright Corporation

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Open Access (CCO)
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