Zhang set a Guinness World Record by riding his motorcycle across water on October 25 in Mayang Miao Autonomous County. He used a modified MX450 to complete six full circuits. Zhang said, “I have strong faith that I can make it happen.” Many spectators cheered as he finished the feat.
Zhang, who used an MX450 fitted with amphibious skis and additional waterproofing, made multiple trips across a river, capping off a journey that started in 2009, when his very first try failed after only 20 meters.
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Thousands of spectators cheered from the riverbanks as Zhang charged his motorcycle up a launch ramp and directly onto the open water, balancing the vehicle upright while skimming along the surface for six gruelling full circuits in a remarkable showcase of high-speed physics and engineered control.
This world-first achievement took place on October 25, in Zhang’s hometown of Mayang Miao Autonomous County in central China’s Hunan.
The extraordinary stunt was witnessed by Guinness World Records adjudicator Xiong Wen. According to reports, Guinness officials verified the feat using GPS tracking, timing data, and audiovisual evidence before Xiong confirmed the new world record at the finish line.
The website china.org.cn quoted Zhang as saying, “I have strong faith that I can make it happen. Even if I fail, I will pursue it without hesitation. I really enjoy the process.”
Heartwarming and hilarious reactions followed. An Instagram user wrote, “I need one for Indian city roads when raining.” Another user reacted, “That’s an impressive engineering feat. Turning a motorcycle into something capable of travelling that far across water takes some serious innovation.” A third comment read, “China is inventing or discovering new things every day; respect.”
Zhang is the founder of the motorcycle manufacturer ZXMOTO.