On September 1st, 1919, a 200-mile motorcycle race was held in Marion, Indiana. Among a group of racers representing the Indian Motorcycles was Gene Walker, a man who lived and died for racing. Races Ridden by Gene Walker Born on June 7, 1893, Gene Walker grew up in Birmingham, AL. He remained relatively off the […]
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Although Wilbur Shaw was president of the Indiana Motor Speedway for not quite a decade, he played a key role in restoring it to its former glory. He was passionate about auto racing, motorcycles, and a beautiful track where fellow fans could gather. Though known as an automobile racer, Wilbur Shaw’s contributions to racing as
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Those who are thankful for a rich motorcycle history in Indiana owe part of their gratitude to Carl G. Fisher. Fisher played an important role in the growth and development of the Indiana Motor Speedway which hosted its first motorcycle race in 1909. Carl G. Fisher: Bicycle Enthusiast Carl Graham Fisher was born on January
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If you are familiar with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, you may or may not know a thing or two about its predecessor, the Newby Oval. Arthur C. Newby loved to share the racing experience with others, and the Newby Oval expressed (and continues to express) that love to the world. Arthur C. Newby: Racing Pioneer
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If you love motorcycles, it is important to know who and what brought them to what they are today. Jim Davis played an important role in motorcycle history. Learn more about his story. Jim Davis: Born for the Road Jim Davis of Columbus, Ohio, was born in 1896, likely with a thrill for adventure already
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Many individuals possess mixed feelings about the actions of Edward Joel Pennington, but there is no denying the impact that he had on Indiana’s motorcycle history. Learn more about his story. E.J. Pennington: An Indiana Inventor Edward Joel (E.J.) Pennington was born in Moore’s Hill, Indiana, in 1858. Known for being an inventor and a
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Erwin George “Cannonball” Baker was born on March 12, 1882, and played a significant role in the world of motorcycle racing. Who exactly was Erwin Baker, and what is he remembered for? Erwin Baker: The Early Years Baker’s original career of choice was an entertainer. However, after winning a 1904 motorcycle race on a dirt
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Buried in the beginnings of classic motorcycle history is the Johnson Motor Wheel. This invention was fun, imaginative, and sparked by the creativity of Louis Johnson. Learn more about the Johnson Motor Wheel and its relationship with modern motorcycles. Louis Johnson: Inventor Extraordinaire The inventor of the Johnson Motor Wheel, Louis Johnson, is not a
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