About Ed Youngblood
With the roar of an engine and the lure of the open road, Ed Youngblood’s influence on the motorcycle world has been as profound as it has been definitive. His lifelong passion for motorcycling has paved the way for a remarkable journey through the industry, leaving an indelible mark on its history and culture.
Background
The story of Ed Youngblood echoes with the revs and rumbles of motorcycles from around the globe. His love affair with two-wheelers began early, with his first motorcycle—a 165cc Harley-Davidson—becoming part of his life at merely 14 years old. Since that pivotal moment, Youngblood's experiences have spanned across American, British, European, and Japanese brands, amassing a repertoire of personal anecdotes and a treasure-trove of insider knowledge.
Ed Youngblood’s Curriculum Vitae
Education
Ed Youngblood’s scholastic journey began at Oklahoma State University, where he gained a Liberal Arts B.A., and was further enriched at Ohio University with an M.A. in English Literature.
Professional Experience
Youngblood’s professional odyssey took flight in the industry as a journalist in 1968 and subsequently ascended to new heights during his 28-year tenure at the American Motorcyclist Association, where he ultimately became its president. Post AMA, he dedicated his time to writing, historical research, and providing esteemed curatorial expertise.
Consultant Roles
Through the years, Youngblood has provided counsel to revered institutions such as BMW Motorcycle Owners of America, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, and more, contributing to the preservation and celebration of motorcycle heritage.
Curatorial Work
As an influential museum curator, Youngblood engineered unforgettable exhibits including “The Art of the Motorcycle” and “Heroes of Harley-Davidson,” which toasted to the iconic legacies within the motorcycling community.
Published Works
Youngblood’s authorial talents have produced significant works covering motorcycle racing history, celebrated riders, and the evolution of Indian motorcycles critical for enthusiasts and scholars alike.
Scholarly Papers and Expert Commentary
With the scholarly rigor of an academic, Youngblood penned papers such as “The Birth of the Dirt Bike”, and lent his voice to televised histories on channels like CBS and the Speed Channel.
Works in Progress
Continuously advancing the field, Youngblood is vested in the upcoming publication on the development of American motocross and the corresponding landmark museum exhibit.
Personal Motto: "Ride, Research, Write"
Youngblood’s personal and professional lives are interwoven with the fabric of motorcycling. His motto—"Ride, Research, Write"—is not only a chronological timeline of his engagement with motorcycles but also a testament to his dedication to preserving and sharing the sport and culture of motorcycling.
The Integration of Travel in Motohistory
The essence of motorcycling is rooted in the spirit of travel and adventure. Similarly, Ed Youngblood’s contributions to motohistory invite enthusiasts to embark on a journey through time, discovering the rich tapestry of motorcycle culture and the open road narratives that have shaped our world. Youngblood’s work encapsulates the thrill of exploration, the appreciation of heritage, and the ceaseless chase of the horizon—values shared between the chronicles of motohistory and the souls of travelers everywhere.