Zhang Xue, founder of Chinese motorcycle manufacturer ZXMOTO, set a Guinness World Record on Sunday by riding a modified motorcycle 40.74 kilometers across open water in his hometown of Mayang Miao Autonomous County in central China's Hunan Province.
Riding a specially modified ZXMOTO MX450, Zhang made several back-and-forth runs across a river to set the record for the longest distance traveled on open water by a modified motorcycle.
The achievement marked the culmination of a pursuit stretching back to 2009, when Zhang first attempted to ride a motorcycle across water using rudimentary modifications. On that occasion, he fell into the water four times and managed a maximum distance of just 20 meters.
For Sunday's attempt, the MX450 was fitted with amphibious skis, an enlarged fuel tank and additional waterproofing.
The motorcycle builds up speed on land before skimming across the water, with a front ski providing steering and the rear tire pushing water backward to generate propulsion.
Zhang said staging the record attempt in his hometown gave the achievement added significance.
"Everything came together at the right time. The MX450 was also about to enter mass production, so it was a good opportunity to return to my hometown for this challenge. People and businesses are constantly growing. Our experience and technology keep improving, and as our organization grows stronger, we gain access to more resources. With the technology, resources and right conditions in place, we can carry out a challenge like this with greater confidence," Zhang said.
Guinness World Records officials witnessed the attempt and verified the result. The team spent five months preparing for the attempt, fine-tuning the motorcycle's flotation system, waterproofing and power setup. Repeated water tests helped improve stability and address technical challenges.
"If I could meet the person I was 20 years ago, I'd tell him: You've done a great job, young man. Just keep going," Zhang said.
Chinese motorcycle entrepreneur sets world record for riding on water
Chinese motorcycle entrepreneur sets world record for riding on water
