Motocross daredevil Colby Raha has etched his name into the annals of motorcycle history, successfully setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest distance jumped on a Harley-Davidson. The monumental feat took place at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally on Saturday, August 2nd, as part of his “Record Breakers” event at the historic Thunderdome.
In front of a cheering crowd of over 5,000 fans, the 30-year-old athlete piloted a stock 550-pound Harley-Davidson V-Twin motorcycle an astonishing 205 feet (62.5 meters) through the air. This jump shatters the previous record of 183.7 feet, set 15 years ago by Australian stuntman Seth Enslow.
Raha, known for his gritty work ethic and fearless approach to massive jumps, said the attempt was a tribute to the legendary Evel Knievel, whose spirit he felt while soaring over the gap. His record-breaking jump was the culmination of years of preparation and multiple practice runs, which saw him fine-tuning his approach and form.
While the Free-Style Motocross (FMX) world has seen longer jumps on lighter, more nimble bikes—such as Robbie Maddison’s 2008 record of 346 feet—the “Harley-Davidson jump” is a distinct and prestigious category in the stunt world. The sheer weight and power of the V-twin motorcycle make the jump a test of raw strength, precision, and courage.
Raha’s record-breaking performance adds to an already impressive list of achievements for the California native, who holds 11 X Games medals, including six golds. His successful jump at Sturgis is a testament to his dedication and a thrilling new chapter in the history of motorcycle daredevilry.