On September 13, 1948, on the vast expanse of the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, Roland "Rollie" Free piloted the first Vincent HRD Black Lightning motorcycle to a new motorcycle speed record of 150.313 mph. In order to set the record, Rollie Free realized that he was going to have to do something innovative and daring. He removed the seat and lay on his stomach on the steel rear mudguard with his arms stretched fully out in front (his fingers just grasping the controls) and his legs held rigidly behind him. This highly unusual approach to the problem served dual purposes. First, with his body weight centered over the rear wheel he improved traction. Secondly, in this prone position, he knew that he could achieve the most aerodynamically efficient line possible.
In this innovative and daring approach to the pursuit of a world speed record, Rollie went "flat out" to reduce wind resistance by eschewing the customary racing leathers and instead raced to success clad only in a Speedo bathing suit, shower cap and a pair of borrowed sneakers.
What relevance does that act of daring and innovative thinking have to do with the HARRIS & HARRIS law firm?
The answer is simply that successful advocacy and effective legal advice both require many of the qualities exemplified by Rollie Free on that fateful day in 1948. Each requires a "flat out" commitment to the job at hand, a willingness to make sacrifices, certain fearlessness where circumstances demand it, the ability to plan a daring attack, and the backbone to carry it to a successful conclusion.
In the spirit of Rollie Free, the Attorneys and Staff at Harris & Harris are dedicated to giving their clients the "flat out" legal representation they need.
BUT, the story doesn't end here. The record setting Vincent HRD motorcycle was lost for decades after Rollie Free's fabled ride. Recently, a motorcycle aficionado with an impressive history of detailed restorations rescued this legendary motorcycle. His previous restorations of a 1949 HRD Rapide, a Series A Rapide, and a BSA DBD34 each won the prestigious Del Mar Concours. It has been said that these machines "have to be seen to be believed, the detail is so perfect and the standard of finish so high."
Who is this motorcycle aficionado whose strong commitment to excellence and keen attention to detail restored this legendary motorcycle?
The answer -- Herb Harris.