Curtiss V-8 motorcycle
| Manufacturer | Glenn Curtiss |
|---|---|
| Assembly | 1906 |
| Class | Speed record challenger |
| Engine | Curtiss B-8: 269 cu in (4,410 cc), dual carburetor, 90° F-head V-8 |
| Bore / stroke | 3.625 in × 3.25 in (92.1 mm × 82.6 mm) |
| Top speed | 136 mph (219 km/h) |
| Power | 40 hp (30 kW) @ 1,800 RPM |
| Ignition type | Battery ignition, jump-spark |
| Transmission | Direct drive Shaft and rear hub bevel |
| Frame type | Steel tubing |
| Brakes | Rear v brake |
| Tires | 26 in (660 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 64 in (1.6 m) |
| Dimensions | L: 7 ft 10 in (2.4 m) W: 2 ft 3 in (0.7 m) H: 3 ft (0.9 m) |
| Weight | 275 lb (125 kg) (wet) |
| Fuel capacity | 2.5 US gal (9.5 L) |
The Curtiss V-8 motorcycle was a purpose-built motorcycle designed and built by aviation and motorcycling pioneer Glenn Curtiss to show the power of his Curtiss Model B-8 269 cu in (4,410 cc) V8 engine intended for use in dirigible airships and upcoming airplanes.
Curtiss had already made a record run in 1903 with a V2 engine motorcycle. The V8 motorcycle set an unofficial land speed record of 136.36 miles per hour (219.45 km/h) on January 24, 1907 in Ormond Beach, Florida. This was only a one-way run, hand stopped with the use of binoculars. No return run was made as the direct drive shaft broke. The motorcycle, only able to run straight and not usable on roads, was retired.
In 2025, a working replica was made by Dale Stoner and presented by Jay Leno's Garage.