Zhang Xue, founder of Chinese motorcycle maker ZXMOTO, completed a 40.74‑kilometre crossing of the Jinjiang River in Hunan Province, earning a Guinness World Record for the greatest distance travelled over open water by a modified motorcycle.

The attempt took place in Zhang’s hometown of Mayang Miao Autonomous County, Huaihua, where thousands of spectators gathered to watch the event.

The bike was a modified MX450 equipped with flotation structures, waterproof seals and an amphibious system that allowed it to skim the water’s surface.

A rear tyre was altered to push water backwards for propulsion, while a front steering ski provided directional control and balance.

Guinness adjudicator Xiong Wen verified the record on site after reviewing GPS data, timing logs and audiovisual evidence.

Rescue boats and medical teams were positioned along the river throughout the 40.74‑kilometre ride as a safety precaution.

Zhang’s achievement surpassed the previous record of 31.8 kilometres, establishing a new benchmark for the niche category.

The successful crossing followed five months of engineering work, during which the team refined flotation, waterproofing and power systems and conducted repeated water‑stability tests.

Zhang first attempted the water ride in 2009, experiencing four failed tries that ended with him falling into the river, the longest of which covered only about 20 metres.

Videos of the ride have since circulated widely on social media, drawing international attention to the unusual feat and to Zhang’s hometown.