A Motorcycle Travels Over 40 Kilometres on Water
Wednesday, October 28, 2026170 words3 minutes366 reads
On 25 October, Zhang Xue rode a modified motorcycle across a river in Mayang, Hunan, his hometown. According to the report, he travelled 40.74 kilometres in about 32 minutes, making seven turns. The journey broke the Guinness World Record for the longest distance travelled on open water by a modified motorcycle. The previous record was about 31.8 kilometres.
His engineering team added sliding parts similar to water skis. The rear tyre's deep tread pushed water backwards to move the bike forward. At enough speed, water pressing upwards against the sliding parts helped support its weight. Unlike a boat floating quietly, the motorcycle needed to keep moving. Losing speed or balance could make it fall into the water.
The achievement followed four failed attempts in 2009, when Zhang's longest ride reached only about 20 metres. This time, his team spent months testing and changing the machine. Special equipment and preparation made the journey possible. It does not mean an ordinary motorcycle can cross a lake, and high-speed water riding remains dangerous.
