Across America By Motorcycle 1919: A Journey Through Time

In 1919, two young men set out on a cross-country motorcycle trip that would change their lives forever. Erwin "Cannonball" Baker and Carl Stearns Clancy were both experienced motorcyclists, but their journey would be unlike anything they had ever attempted before.

They planned to ride from New York City to San Francisco, a distance of over 3,000 miles. They would be traveling on mostly unpaved roads, and they would be facing challenges such as extreme weather, mechanical breakdowns, and the dangers of riding in a time when motorcycles were not as common as they are today.

ACROSS AMERICA BY MOTORCYCLE: 1919 HARLEY DAVIDSON

by D C Robinson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	54459 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	267 pages

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Baker and Clancy set out from New York City on June 15, 1919. They rode through the Hudson Valley, the Catskill Mountains, and the Allegheny Mountains. They crossed the Ohio River into Indiana, and then continued west through Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska.

The journey was not without its challenges. The roads were often rough, and the weather was hot and humid. Baker and Clancy had several mechanical breakdowns, and they were even arrested for speeding in one town. But they persevered, and they eventually reached San Francisco on July 4, 1919.

Their journey had taken them 20 days, and they had covered over 3,000 miles. They had seen some of the most beautiful and challenging landscapes in America, and they had experienced the freedom and adventure of motorcycle travel.

Their journey was also a significant historical event. It was one of the first cross-country motorcycle trips ever completed, and it helped to popularize motorcycle travel in America. Baker and Clancy's journey is still remembered today, and it continues to inspire motorcycle enthusiasts around the world.

The Motorcycles

Baker and Clancy rode 1919 Harley-Davidson motorcycles. These motorcycles were some of the most advanced motorcycles available at the time, and they were well-suited for the challenges of a cross-country journey.

The Harley-Davidson motorcycles had V-twin engines that produced 10 horsepower. They had a top speed of about 50 miles per hour. The motorcycles were also equipped with a three-speed transmission and a kickstarter.

Baker and Clancy's motorcycles were not without their problems. They had several mechanical breakdowns along the way, and they had to replace several parts. But the motorcycles were able to withstand the challenges of the journey, and they helped Baker and Clancy to complete their cross-country trip.

The Route

Baker and Clancy's route took them through some of the most beautiful and challenging landscapes in America. They rode through the Hudson Valley, the Catskill Mountains, the Allegheny Mountains, the Ohio River Valley, the Great Plains, and the Rocky Mountains.

The route was not without its challenges. The roads were often rough, and the weather was hot and humid. Baker and Clancy also had to cross several mountain passes, which were often difficult to navigate on a motorcycle.

But the challenges were also part of the adventure. Baker and Clancy enjoyed the scenery, and they relished the opportunity to test themselves against the elements.

The Challenges

Baker and Clancy faced many challenges on their cross-country journey. The roads were often rough, and the weather was hot and humid. They had several mechanical breakdowns, and they were even arrested for speeding in one town.

But the biggest challenge was the lack of support. In 1919, there were few motorcycle dealerships or repair shops, and Baker and Clancy were often on their own when they needed help.

Despite the challenges, Baker and Clancy persevered. They were determined to complete their journey, and they were willing to face whatever challenges came their way.

The Legacy

Baker and Clancy's cross-country motorcycle trip was a significant historical event. It was one of the first cross-country motorcycle trips ever completed, and it helped to popularize motorcycle travel in America.

Baker and Clancy's journey is still remembered today, and it continues to inspire motorcycle enthusiasts around the world. Their story is a reminder that anything is possible if you have the determination and the courage to pursue your dreams.

Baker and Clancy's cross-country motorcycle trip was a journey of a lifetime. They saw some of the most beautiful and challenging landscapes in America, and they experienced the freedom and adventure of motorcycle travel. Their journey was also a significant historical event, and it helped to popularize motorcycle travel in America. Baker and Clancy's legacy continues to inspire motorcycle enthusiasts around the world.

ACROSS AMERICA BY MOTORCYCLE: 1919 HARLEY DAVIDSON

by D C Robinson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	54459 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	267 pages

FREE