In 1996, record-holding stunt rider, Eddie Kidd, was involved in a serious motorcycle accident while performing at the Bulldog Bash, held at Long Marston Airfield near Stratford-upon-Avon in the UK.
In comparison to some of his previous stunts, the jump Kidd made that day was relatively minor, comprising a jump of approximately 15m (49 ft) across a drag strip. The relatively short landing area beyond the drag strip consisted of an uphill incline leading to the edge of a steep embankment. Although Kidd completed the jump and landed the bike upright on two wheels, his chin struck the petrol tank of his motorcycle and he was knocked unconscious. As a result, he was unable to prevent himself and his bike from continuing up and over the 6m (20 ft) embankment edge. He sustained serious head and pelvic injuries in the resulting fall.
After the accident, doctors told Kidd’s parents that it was possible he could be in a coma for up to 10 years. However, he regained consciousness within three months of the accident, but was left paralysed and with brain damage.
Here’s Eddie showing Robbie Knievel how to do it.