Marty Dickerson is a name that will forever be synonymous with Vincent motorcycles and the pursuit of speed. Born in Inglewood, California, on November 3, 1926, Dickerson’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and remarkable achievements in the world of motorcycling. From setting world speed records to becoming a respected figure in the racing and motorcycle communities, Dickerson’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and love for the craft.

The Early Years: A Passion for Motorcycles

Marty Dickerson’s love for motorcycles began in high school, when he was first introduced to the world of two-wheeled machines. A close friend owned an old Harley-Davidson, and Dickerson, eager to experience the thrill of riding, saved up enough money to buy a 1929 Harley-Davidson JD for $65. The bike didn’t run, but the fresh tires were vital during World War II, and with the help of his friend, Dickerson managed to get it started. Though his first ride ended in a fall, this would not deter him—Dickerson was hooked.

After World War II, Dickerson moved on to a new Triumph Tiger 100, a bike that would play a significant role in his involvement with the Los Angeles street-racing scene. Despite Triumphs being limited to speeds of around 104 mph, Dickerson’s Tiger hit 98 mph on the Rosamond Dry Lake, impressing his peers and setting the stage for what was to come.

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The Encounter with Vincent Motorcycles

In the 1950s, rumors spread around the Los Angeles area about a British V-Twin motorcycle that was the fastest on the road. Intrigued, Dickerson set off to see the machine firsthand, traveling to Mickey Martin’s shop in Burbank, where he laid eyes on a Vincent for the first time. Though the bike’s rough sand-cast engine cases weren’t immediately appealing, Dickerson’s fascination with the machine grew over time. After several visits to the shop, he finally made a deal to trade his Triumph Tiger for a new Vincent.

October 1948 marked the beginning of Dickerson’s deep connection with the Vincent brand. He found the bike difficult to ride initially, particularly with its tricky clutch and starting technique. However, his passion for the machine fueled his persistence, and he soon became one with his Vincent, riding it across the streets of Los Angeles and honing his skills.

Racing and Becoming a Vincent Ambassador

Unable to keep up with the high cost of his new Vincent, Dickerson turned to Mickey Martin for help. Martin offered him a job as a traveling salesman, where Dickerson would ride his Vincent to various towns, demonstrating the bike and trying to generate interest. These trips became more about drag racing than sales, with Dickerson often setting up impromptu races with local motorcyclists and hot rod drivers. His first notable race occurred in Phoenix, where Dickerson and his Vincent faced off against a hot rod in a desert showdown, with Dickerson emerging victorious.

However, the business side of the job didn’t take off as planned, so Dickerson opened his own motorcycle shop in his hometown of Hawthorne, California, in 1951. This was the beginning of his journey as a motorcycle shop owner and a key player in the Vincent community.

Bonneville Speed Trials and Record-Breaking Feats

Dickerson’s passion for speed led him to Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, where he would go on to set multiple speed records. In 1951, he set a Class C speed record at 129 mph. However, when his record was broken in 1952, Dickerson returned to Bonneville in 1953 with an upgraded version of his Vincent and shattered the Class C record with an average speed of 147 mph. Not only did he surpass his previous record, but he also became the first to break the elusive 150 mph barrier in one direction, cementing his place in motorcycle history.

These records stood for an impressive 20 years, with the 147 mph mark only being broken in 1973 by a Yoshimura Kawasaki Z1. Throughout this period, Dickerson’s Vincent was more than just a bike—it was a symbol of his pursuit of excellence and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of speed.

Road Racing Triumphs

While Dickerson’s achievements on the Bonneville Salt Flats were legendary, his success didn’t end there. He was also a skilled road racer, particularly in the Southern California region. In 1953, Dickerson entered and won the 250cc division of the prestigious Catalina Grand Prix, riding a two-stroke Jawa. His victory in this event was a testament to his skill and versatility as a racer, further solidifying his place among the greats in the world of motorcycling.

Teaching the Next Generation

In the 1960s, Dickerson shifted gears and began teaching motorcycle service at a vocational school. For 17 years, he imparted his vast knowledge and experience to hundreds of aspiring mechanics. Many of the country’s top racing mechanics in the 1970s and beyond proudly claim Dickerson as their mentor, and his influence in the field of motorcycle repair and racing continues to be felt to this day.

A Return to Speed in the 1990s

Even in his later years, Dickerson’s passion for motorcycles remained strong. In 1996, at the age of 70, he dusted off his old Vincent and set a vintage speed record, proving that age was no obstacle for a man who had dedicated his life to riding and racing. This achievement was a fitting tribute to his incredible career and love for the sport.

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Legacy and Lasting Influence

When Marty Dickerson was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2002, he was already living a quieter life in the rolling hills of Creston, California. Though retired from active racing, Dickerson continued to participate in Vincent rallies and remained involved in the sport he loved. His knowledge and expertise were still sought after by motorcycle enthusiasts, and his influence on the world of Vincent motorcycles remains strong even more than fifty years after his legendary speed runs.

Dickerson’s legacy is forever intertwined with Vincent motorcycles. His remarkable achievements in speed and racing, coupled with his contributions to the motorcycle community, ensure that his name will always be remembered in the annals of motorcycling history. For enthusiasts of the Vincent brand, Dickerson remains an iconic figure, a man whose passion and dedication set the standard for generations of riders to come.

Marty Dickerson’s story is one of adventure, speed, and a deep love for motorcycles. From humble beginnings to breaking speed records, his life exemplifies the spirit of motorcycling and the pursuit of excellence. His journey with Vincent motorcycles not only shaped his career but also left an indelible mark on the history of the sport.