In a devastating blow to the speedway and historic racing community, three legendary motorcycles have been stolen from a train carriage in the United States. The bikes, which were in transit to an auction in Las Vegas, were taken by opportunistic thieves who broke into a container earlier this month.
Irreplaceable Speedway Icons Targeted
The stolen motorcycles are not just any bikes; they are pieces of sporting history. The collection includes a rare 1914 Zenith and two 1930 Rudge Speedway bikes. These particular Rudge machines were ridden by Arthur Warwick, a pioneering figure who helped introduce speedway to the United Kingdom in the 1920s. Adding to their unique identity, the two Rudge bikes had 'Arthur Warwick' hand-painted on their mudguards.
A Heartbreaking Loss for the Community
A spokesman for OBM Motorcycles, the owners, expressed profound distress over the theft. "The loss of these bikes is heartbreaking," they stated. "The two speedway machines in particular are irreplaceable and mean a huge amount within the speedway world and historic racing community."
The bikes were being transported from New York to Las Vegas, where they were due to be auctioned in the coming weeks. Their disappearance has sent shockwaves through enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Substantial Reward Offered for Information
In a desperate bid to recover these historic artefacts, OBM Motorcycles have announced a substantial financial reward for any information that leads to their whereabouts and safe return. The company is appealing directly to the public and the global speedway community for assistance.
"To the entire speedway world, urgent assistance is desperately sought," the spokesman continued. "If anyone sees, hears of, or is offered these motorcycles - or any related parts - please make contact immediately. Even the smallest piece of information could help."
Call for Vigilance and Public Help
Speedway enthusiasts and the general public are being urged to remain vigilant and report any potential sightings or information. The owners emphasise that no detail is too small, and public cooperation could be crucial in tracking down the stolen bikes.
Anyone with information is asked to contact a representative named James via email at james@saimac.co.uk. The hope is that the offered reward will incentivise individuals to come forward with leads that could solve this case and return these priceless pieces of motorsport heritage to their rightful place.
