The Red Baron motorcycle sounds like an airplane, and that’s no coincidence!
(Credit: John Wylie Media, full video)
Smitty was an airframe engineer and instrumental contributor to the development of the P-51D Mustang that became known as the “Red Baron” (RB-51). The aircraft was extensively modified to compete in the Unlimited class of air racing, which it dominated in the late 1970s, and set the piston-powered air speed world record at 499.018 mph in 1979 (watch here).
The Moto Morini land speed racing motorcycle is Smitty’s homage to the RB-51, with knowledge and techniques from the air racer apparent in the design and performance of the land speed racer. By the numbers, the Moto Morini motorcycle has 1% of the displacement and horsepower, and achieves 25% of the top speed!
| Original Model | Moto Morini 350 K2 | P-51D Mustang |
|---|---|---|
| Engine type | V-twin, air-cooled, supercharged | V-12, liquid-cooled, supercharged |
| Displacement | 21 in3 | 2,240 in3 |
| Horsepower | 36 hp | 3,000 hp (3,600 hp for limited time) |
| Top speed | 126.009 mph | 499.018 mph |