In fifteen years no one will remember Travis Pastrana ... (that's not to say he's not awesome, he is)

but he is no Evel Knievel ... (But he may be more famous than "Evel Knieval")

 

Steve McQueen would get my vote as actor/collector/racer. Most well known role: The Great Escape

Peter Fonda would get my vote on most well known actor (and also a biker) in a biker role: Easy Rider

Kenny Roberts would be most well known professional racer among the older generations (like me ! )

But for overall name recognition: Hands down, Evel Knievel.

 

A guy named Harley and three brothers named Davidson.

 

You didn't ask about women or actresses. Let's not forget Ann Margaret.

http://www.rippin-kitten.com/wp-cont.../02/am_duo.jpg

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:3...1238873331&t=1

 

Marlon Brando! When the Wild Ones came out I was hooked on motorcycles for life. The opening scene with all the bikes coming at the camera still gets me.

 

To me... the one man most influential man in all of motorcycle kingdom was .....


Malcolm Smith ... ("On Any Sunday" along with Steve McQueen )

that's what MSR stands for on the motocross gear (for those that don't know)

American HERO !!!

 

One of the wealthiest, Malcom Forbes... collected over 50 Harleys and probably involved in the sale of a bunch...

 

malcom forbes did a lot of touring around the world. he and roger hull(road rider mag.) toured russia back in the cold war days. forbes was a fine ambassador for all who ride today.

 

Yup... but I wonder how he would be percieved here?

 

Stephan King - 1986 Heritage Softail.
He has ridden cross the USA and in other countries too- alone.
Alone, I wonder why?