OFF THE WIRE
Elvington Airfield, York, UK -- The Reverend Ray Biddiss, 57, who himself a 'Heaven's Angel' has reached speeds of more than 114mph, in his specially built 'trike-hearse' - setting the world record for the Fastest motorcycle hearse.
The Guinness world record for the fastest quarter mile in a hearse is 12.206 seconds and was achieved by Shane Hammond (Australia) on the TDRA Dragway in Tasmania, Australia.
Guinness World Records also recognized the fastest speed reached on a conventional motorcycle by a female pilot: 374.208 km/h (232.522 mph), by Leslie Porterfield (USA) on a modified Suzuki Hayabusa at Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah, USA.
"I wanted to create the most powerful of all coffin carriers - a vehicle that maintains the integrity of a motorcycle, appeals to the most passionate of bikers and brings a credible alternative to the traditional four-wheeled hearse or other motorcycle hearse outfits."
He hopes that by showcasing The Rocket, bikers across the country may opt for his creation, which is available to all funeral directors.
Mr Biddiss said: "It was exhilarating! Anything over 80mph would set a record but I wanted to aim high."
The Rocket is a Triumph Rocket III with a 2.3-litre, three-cylinder engine built by Liversedge-based DTB Panther Trikes.
The former Low Moor clergyman hit 114.1mph in The Rocket, which he uses for real funeral services around the Bradford district.
He had to reach a speed of more than 80mph, in his specially built 'trike-hearse' to be recognised by Guinness World Records.
He said he reached the breakneck speeds "on a wing and a prayer", following the two-mile route under the watchful eye of officials.
http://www.worldrecordsacademy.org/transport/fastest_motorcycle_hearse_Rev_Ray_Biddiss_sets_world_record_112245.html
