Agency. Chang Sue, the founder of Chinese motorcycle manufacturer ZXmoto, has set a new world record by driving a motorcycle on water. He broke the previous record of 31.8 km by traveling 40.74 km on the surface of the water using a motorcycle modified with special technology.
The 39-year-old Chang set the record on October 25 in a river in his hometown of Mayang Miao Autonomous County in central China’s Hunan Province.
According to Chinese media CGTN, Chang set a record for the longest distance covered by water by riding a modified MX450 motorcycle in the river. The effort, monitored by a rescue boat and paramedics, was verified by Guinness World Records officials based on GPS tracking, timing and video evidence.
The motorcycle was fitted with special flotation devices and waterproofing technology to float in water. In normal condition, the weight of the motorcycle of this model ranges from 98 to 102 kg. Despite the difficult turns and physical fatigue, Chang completed 6 consecutive laps and covered a distance of 40.74 km. Guinness judge Siong Wen announced his record on the spot.
Chang tried riding a motorcycle on water for the first time at the age of 22. Seventeen years ago, his four consecutive attempts failed due to technological limitations. At that time, he could only cover a distance of 20 meters at most.
For this success, Chang and his team spent about five months improving the motorcycle’s buoyancy, waterproof ceiling and power system.
After setting the world record, Chang said he already believed he could achieve the feat. He said that even if he failed, he would not stop trying.
He said that setting a world record in his home town fulfilled his long-standing dream and made the achievement more meaningful.