January 2000, saw Bubba Blackwell complete the longest Harley-Davidson motorcycle jump in history in downtown Las Vegas for the UPN TV show, “I Dare You, the Ultimate Challenge.” Bubba made it look easy as he sailed his 400 lb XR-750 over 15 tour busses with room to spare, completing the dream of being the ONLY daredevil to beat all of Evel Knievel jumping records using the same type motorcycle and the same size ramps.

Bubba spent most of 2000 focusing on a complete show make over. Having noticed the Harley-Davidson inspired Buell motorcycle was generating a lot of attention, Bubba decided to add much needed time filler to the jump show by performing the European style of riding called “Street Fighter” with an American flair. Acquiring full factory sponsorship from Buell Motorcycle Company, Bubba began the 2001 season with much excitement.

On February 10, 2001 Bubba decided to retry the 14 semi-truck jump that he had performed on “The Tonight Show.” On “The Tonight Show” jump, if you watched closely, you would have notice the rear tire landed about two feet short on the safety ramp. Bubba said later, “I gave my word that I would clear 14 semi-trucks, so I wanted to try again in my hometown.” The event took place in Foley, AL with over 10,000 people in attendance, along with the London England based production film crew for the Discovery Channel. Bubba flew well past semi-truck #14 this time. It was a big success as a portion of the proceeds went to finalize the project of the Foley Kids Park, where an Honorary Bubba Blackwell stone is now placed.

With the success of yet another Harley-Davidson World Record, the call came to return to Del Mar, CA. Having set the attendance record for a single act in 1999, the management wanted to see what he could do next. On July 4, 2001 in Del Mar, CA, Bubba Blackwell almost lost his life while attempting to clear 22 cars on a deeply graded horse track. The surface of the track, at first, was acceptable and smoothly packed. After several speed runs, the surface became chewed up and with it being 9:30 at night, it was too dark to notice. Bubba accelerated toward the ramp and was going very fast with the engine screaming. However, the traction wasn’t there and the bike was robbed of the speed necessary to clear the gap. The result was one of the most shocking crashes ever caught on tape. In a coma and placed on life support, it was clear that Bubba would be in for a long road to recovery. Bubba Blackwell was in the news around the world.

Since the July 4th accident, Bubba has been touring the country performing stunt riding shows at Harley-Davidson dealers and special events. 2003 marked not only the 100th Anniversary of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, but Bubba Blackwell’s return to jumping. The Travel Channel was on hand and filmed a special on Bubba’s first jump since July 4, 2001 in a small parking lot at Uke’s HD/Buell in Kenosha, WI. With the help of a 20’ high ski ramp, Bubba sailed his XR-750 Harley-Davidson over 10 Peterbilt Trucks. 25,000 people cheered as Bubba marked his return to the Daredevil World
with the successful 100’ leap.

Two weeks later saw “The American Daredevil” clear 15 new Porsche cars in Reading, PA at Classic HD/Buell. The decision was made at the beginning of 2005 to get back on the jump bike more, and offer the dealers a more exciting option to the stunt shows. Three days after Bubba’s first born child Regan Faye was born, Bubba was back at Uke’s HD/Buell flying his HOG. The jump was successful. Other jumps in 2005 included Kansas State HOG Rally, Morgan Hill, CA, Rossville, GA, South Padre Island, TX and the biggest jump of the year over 16 cars near Bubba’s home in Loxley, AL. Bubba is still committed to being the most entertaining motorcycle rider currently touring. 2006 saw Bubba performing at over 30 events from coast to coast.

2007 brought a few new changes including a 2007 Laramie Edition Dodge Dually, a 2007 44’ custom tow trailer, along with the addition of a Harley-Davidson V-Rod, and a factory customized Screamin’ Eagle Harley-Davidson Electra Glide. Bubba had one of the most successful tours to date with an early stop to perform for the Riley’s Children’s Hospital fund raising event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Bubba performed along with good friend country singer Darron Norwood at no charge, and even donated a custom painted 1200cc HD Sportster.

After years of traveling and being on the road, Bubba admits that from time to time he thinks of retiring, but at the end of 2007, Bubba was quoted as saying “I’ve never had more fun than this year and I can’t wait for 2008.” Bubba has spent the winter of 2007 in the gym everyday except Saturday and Sunday, and is in the best shape of his life. He has been riding everyday and he understands how fortunate he is to make a living, doing what he truly loves.

This is the second time Bubba has performed for us at St. Croix Harley-Davidson. He puts on a great show.
Bring the whole family!! You will be talking about this for years to come!