Several reliable news agencies report legendary daredevil Evel Knievel passed away yesterday at the age of 69.
It is difficult to summarize the impact Knievel had on the public and motorcycle enthusiasts. At the same time, he seemed to embody everything good and bad about motorcycling. Seemingly wild and reckless, Knievel more than anyone was able to convey the freedom and exhilaration riding a motorcycle brought.
If ever a man was truly fearless, Evel Knievel was that man. He paid dearly for it, with nearly 40 broken bones and countless concussions. He also reaped huge financial rewards and public adoration.
One can imagine that he converted just as many observers into motorcycle enthusiasts as he horrified with his death defying stunts. We are not here very long, and there is very good reason to “go for it”, whatever “it” may be in your life. Evel Knievel went for it.
