Tony Murphy, a legendary figure in the world of motorcycle racing, journalism, and industry innovation, passed away last week at the age of 84. Born in Romford, England, in 1940, Tony’s lifelong passion for motorcycles began in his childhood. After his family immigrated to the United States in 1950, he quickly embraced American flat track and road racing, setting the stage for a remarkable career that would span decades and leave an indelible mark on the motorcycle community.
Tony’s journey into the world of motorcycles began in earnest in 1955, while still in high school, when he worked summers at BSA Incorporated in New Jersey. There, he met his racing heroes, including Dick Mann and Albert Gunter, who inspired him to pursue his own dreams of becoming a professional racer. By 1957, Tony had moved to California, where he immersed himself in AFM road racing, starting on a 175cc Ducati before moving up to a Manx Norton. His talent and dedication soon caught the attention of Don Evans, with whom he worked in the Honda service department. Together, they built a 250cc Superhawk into a 350cc machine that became nearly unbeatable, launching Tony on a winning streak that earned him multiple AFM titles.
In 1964, Tony left Honda but continued racing, piloting the 350 Superhawk and a borrowed Greeves Silverstone. His skills soon attracted the attention of Yamaha, and he joined Burt Smith’s team as a rider and test engineer. Tony became part of a global effort to develop Yamaha’s RD machines, and his success on the track earned him the nickname “King of Willow” for his dominance at Willow Springs Raceway. In 1965, he rode a Yamaha to victory in the Loudon 250cc AMA National Road Race on the brand-new New Hampshire road course, further cementing his reputation as a formidable competitor.
By 1968, Yamaha promoted Tony to race manager, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of riders like Phil Reed, Mike Duff, and Art Baumann. His leadership and technical expertise helped Yamaha solidify its presence in the racing world. However, Tony’s restless spirit and love for motorcycles led him to new challenges. He transitioned to journalism, joining Peterson Publishing, where his writing and testing skills shone. As an editor for Motorcyclist magazine, Tony evaluated new street bikes, tested factory race machines, and wrote features that captivated readers. His work took him around the world, test-riding bikes for Bridgestone, Honda, Greeves, Triumph, Tohatsu, and even Harley-Davidson’s first alloy XR-750 road racer.
Tony’s career took another exciting turn when he was hired as a consultant for Bombardier’s Can-Am motorcycle project. This role evolved into a long-term relationship with Rotax in Austria and an exclusive importer deal that remained in place for most of the rest of Tony’s life. Finally working for himself, Tony found immense satisfaction in this chapter of his life, calling it “the best move I ever made.”
Throughout his life, Tony Murphy wore many hats: racer, test rider, race manager, magazine editor, and business owner. His determination, expertise, and unwavering love for motorcycles made him a trailblazer in the industry. Tony’s legacy is one of passion, innovation, and a deep connection to the motorcycle community. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but also for the joy and inspiration he brought to countless riders and enthusiasts.
He is survived by his family, friends, and a global community of admirers who will forever cherish his memory.
