The story of this extraordinary vehicle begins with a heroic rescue. The team at Wheels Through Time, a museum located in North Carolina, saved this unique rig from the clutches of oblivion in a gravel pit. After safely retrieving it, they took it for a test drive, albeit with some heart-stopping moments caused by faulty brakes.
Dale, one of the team members, provides us with a closer look at this 30-foot-long marvel, highlighting both its impressive features and minor drawbacks. The Harley-Davidson Nine-Wheeler showcases a fifth-wheel arrangement connected to a double rear axle, further linked to the motorcycle cab by a towbar. With a weight of 4000 lbs., comparable to a Range Rover, this bike-trailer combination is no lightweight.
During the initial drive, Dale discovered that the airbrakes were switched off, resulting in less stopping power for a vehicle carrying such a substantial load. However, he assures us that apart from a few areas needing attention, such as the starter connection, the overall condition of the rig is solid and well-constructed.
Crafted by Kenny Kilpatrick from Huntsville, Alabama, this mini-truck features Dunlop tires, a 1340cc Harley engine, and customized clutch, transmission, and other parts to ensure optimal performance. Inside the trailer, the setup is what you would expect from a basic and cozy caravan, complete with a queen-size bed, sofa, skylights, and even a cassette player to transport us back to the nostalgic year of 1989.
The painstaking efforts required to salvage this renowned Harley-Davidson custom vehicle are truly commendable. Initially buried two feet deep in gravel or a sandpit, the team faced a significant challenge in extracting the bike and trailer from their desolate resting place. Slowly rusting away, their rescue mission was met with multiple obstacles, including the unfortunate incident of a sheared-off wheel.
Fortunately, the team received invaluable assistance from passers-by and generous individuals who donated parts, including a replacement wheel. Eventually, the convoy arrived safely at the Wheels Through Time museum, albeit much later than anticipated. With its vast expanse of 38,000 square feet and a collection featuring around 375 of the rarest motorcycles, the museum promises an incredible experience for visitors, especially now that the 9-Wheeler has found its rightful place among the other bikes, ready to captivate and entertain.
While the value or price of this extraordinary rig remains undisclosed, it is safe to say that its worth surpasses monetary considerations. The laborious journey of preserving this unique piece of machinery serves as a testament to hard work, determination, and the embodiment of the American dream.
There are numerous aspects to admire about this project, not least of which is the preservation of the bike handlebars. We can all breathe a sigh of relief knowing that this exceptional and well-maintained bike rig has been saved from the fate of slowly succumbing to rust.
