What Motorcycle does Tom Cruise Ride in Top Gun?
The thrill of high-octane action, the rush of adrenaline, and the sensation of freedom that comes with riding a motorcycle – that’s what Top Gun is all about! Released in 1986, the iconic film introduced us to the world of fighter pilots and their aerial stunts, but we can’t ignore the sweet rides that came with the package. One of which is the iconic motorcycle rode by Tom Cruise’s character, Maverick. What motorcycle does Tom Cruise ride in Top Gun? Dive in to find out.
The Harley-Davidson FXSO
Titled as one of the most iconic movie motorcycles in history, the 1979 Harley-Davidson FXSO is Maverick’s Motorcycle of Choice in the iconic film. With its retro styling, raw power, and rebellious spirit, this bike became synonymous with the quintessential American biker: the free-spirited, thrill-seeking, motorcycle-riding fighter pilot.
Why did Maverick choose an FXSO? For him, it represented freedom from the constraints of the aviation world. As a man who lived for the ride, Maverick saw an FXSO as the epitome of liberation, representing the open road, open skies, and the call of adventure.
Model Specifications
Here’s an overview of the ’79 Harley-Davidide FXSO:
- Engine: 68 cubic inches (1.1 liters) V-Twin
- horsepower: 50 HP at 5,000 rpm
- Torque: 68 lb-ft
- Transmission: Hydraulic belt drive, 2-speed
- Fork: Front fork Suspension
- Seat: 27 inches (683 mm) seat height, 2-passenger-capacity
- Gas tank: 4 gallon (15 liters)
Take a look at the details:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.1 liters V-Twin |
| Horsepower | 50 HP @ 5,000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 lb-ft |
Why did Tom Cruise choose the FXSO
In an interview, Jerry Bruckheimer, director of Top Gun, praised Tom Cruise for his thorough research on the FXSO, stating:
Maverick had to drive this bike like it belonged to him, and by the time he finished training, he could do circles around the stunt team – he was an expert riders
Tom Cruise himself appreciated the bike’s rugged qualities, saying:
…it’s not just any bike, it’s about the ride, the sensations, the way it interacts with the rider…You gotta feel it, that’s what it’s about
FXSO Iconic Status
The Harley-Davidide FXSO in the movie Top Gun catapulted it to legendary status, solidifying its cult following among motorcyclists and film enthusiasts alike! Who can forget the shots of Maverick effortlessly traversing the Golden Gate Bridge, the highway, and the desert roads, a true symbol of freedom in motion?
In conclusion:
- The 1979 Harley-Davidson FXSO is the iconic motorcycle ridden by Tom Cruise, Maverick, in Top Gun.
- The bike represented freedom to Maverick, a freedom that transcended the airborne world.
- With only 1,400 ’79 FXSOs in production, the model can be considered rare, highlighting its unique appeal and nostalgia.
- As an object of desire for motorcycle lovers and film enthusiasts, The Harley-Davidson FXSO in Top Gun can be considered one of cinema’s most memorable movie artifacts.
Bonus Facts:
