Don Vesco, 1973

Item — disc: 4

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Don Vesco talks about his childhood riding motorcycles and his thoughts on the Salt Flats. He holds nineteen world records at the Salt Flats, including a speed of over 281 miles per hour. Vesco, in a streamliner, will attempt to go faster than 300 miles per hour. His qualifying run goes approximately 236 miles per hour, proving that his bike is working correctly. The next morning, he attempts to go 300 miles per hour but the wind knocks his bike over and he slides for almost three quarters of a mile before stopping. The next morning he tries again, but the steering seems to have some problems and won't quite hold straight.

After a few weeks, in the fall of 1975 Vesco tries again. Vesco hits 307 on the way out as well as over 300 on the way back to establish a new record at just over 303 miles per hour.

Color is very pink, quality is okay but not great.

Dates

1973

Conditions Governing Access

Materials must be used on-site; no use of original material, access copies will be made available for viewing. Five business days advanced notice required. Access to parts of this collection may be restricted under provisions of state or federal law, condition of the material, or by donor.