Historic Speedway Bikes Stolen from US Train Carriage, Substantial Reward Offered
In a distressing incident for motorsport history, three legendary speedway 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 earlier this month, prompting a desperate appeal from their owners for information regarding their return.
Details of the Theft and the Valuable Motorcycles
The theft occurred on an American train travelling from New York to Las Vegas, where the bikes were being transported for a scheduled auction later this month. The stolen items include a rare 1914 Zenith and two 1930 Rudge Speedway bikes, all of which hold significant historical value in the speedway community.
These motorcycles are particularly notable as they were ridden by Arthur Warwick, a pioneer who helped introduce speedway to the UK in the 1920s. Adding to their uniqueness, the two Rudge bikes had 'Arthur Warwick' hand-painted on their mudguards, making them easily identifiable and irreplaceable artefacts of the sport's early days.
Heartbreak and Urgent Appeal from Owners
A spokesman for OBM Motorcycles, the owners, expressed profound sadness over the loss. "The loss of these bikes is heartbreaking," they said. "The two speedway machines in particular are irreplaceable and mean a huge amount within the speedway world and historic racing community."
The company has issued an urgent plea for assistance, urging speedway enthusiasts and the public to remain vigilant. They are asking anyone who sees, hears of, or is offered these motorcycles or any related parts to make contact immediately. "Even the smallest piece of information could help," the spokesman emphasised, highlighting the critical need for community support in recovering these historic items.
Substantial Reward for Information
To incentivise tips, OBM Motorcycles are offering a substantial reward for any information that leads to the whereabouts and recovery of the bikes. This move underscores the high value and sentimental importance attached to the stolen motorcycles, which are considered priceless within racing circles.
If anyone has information, they are urged to contact James via email at james@saimac.co.uk. The owners hope that this reward will encourage people to come forward with any leads, no matter how minor they may seem.
Key Points of the Incident
- The bikes were stolen from a container on a train travelling from New York to Las Vegas.
- They were due to be auctioned in Vegas in the coming weeks.
- Arthur Warwick, a pioneer of speedway in the UK, rode these bikes in the 1920s.
- Warwick's name was hand-painted on the mudguards of the speedway bikes.
- Rewards are on offer for any information leading to the return of the bikes.
This theft not only represents a significant financial loss but also a blow to cultural heritage, as these motorcycles are key pieces of speedway history. The racing community is now rallying together in hopes of their safe recovery.
