40.74 Kilometers on Water: Chinese Motorcyclist Sets Guinness World Record
Zhang Xue, founder of Chinese motorcycle manufacturer ZXMOTO, set a Guinness World Record on Sunday by traveling 40.74 kilometers across open water on a specially modified motorcycle. The attempt took place in his hometown of Mayang Miao Autonomous County in central China's Hunan Province.
Zhang rode a modified ZXMOTO MX450, making several crossings of a river in both directions to establish the record for the longest distance traveled on open water by a modified motorcycle.
The achievement capped a pursuit that began in 2009, when Zhang first attempted to ride a motorcycle across water using basic modifications. During that early experiment, he fell into the water four times and covered a maximum distance of just 20 meters.
For the latest attempt, the MX450 was equipped with specialized amphibious skis, an enlarged fuel tank and additional waterproofing.
The motorcycle first accelerates on land before skimming across the water. A front ski provides directional control, while the rear tire pushes water backward to generate propulsion.
Zhang said holding the record attempt in his hometown made the achievement particularly meaningful. The MX450 was also approaching mass production, making the challenge an opportunity to mark an important milestone for the company while returning to his roots.
"Everything came together at the right time. The MX450 was also about to enter mass production, so it was a good opportunity to return to my hometown for this challenge. People and businesses are constantly growing. Our experience and technology keep improving, and as our organization grows stronger, we gain access to more resources. With the technology, resources and right conditions in place, we can carry out a challenge like this with greater confidence," Zhang said.
Guinness World Records officials witnessed the attempt and verified the result. The team spent five months preparing, refining the motorcycle's flotation system, waterproofing and power setup. Repeated water tests helped improve stability and overcome technical challenges.
Reflecting on the long journey, Zhang offered a message to his younger self: "If I could meet the person I was 20 years ago, I'd tell him: You've done a great job, young man. Just keep going."
The record represents the culmination of years of experimentation, engineering improvements and persistent work to refine the motorcycle's design.
