March 13, 2011 6.15 am. Former State representative and Senator Dave Zien is returning from Daytona Bike Week, riding interstate 10 in the Florida Panhandle. A SUV driver tries to change lanes, loses control and the vehicle overturns. Despite evasive action, Dave Zien is unable to avoid a collision with the SUV. His left leg is crushed and had to be amputated above the knee. His right hip is shattered, his left hand broken, and he suffers numerous other injuries.
Today, after multiple surgeries and daily physical therapy to learn how to walk with a prosthetic leg, the former lawmaker known for more than 2 million miles riding motorcycles is back in the saddle. A lesson of courage and tenacity surprising everybody except his family and friends. Dave Zien is currently appearing as himself in “The Million Mile Motorcycle Man” in “Born to Ride,” a story about two motorcycle riders on their way to Sturgis, S.D., which was released directly to DVD last month. His 1 million miles Harley is displayed at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. I hear that Dave is already contemplating a new marathon ride, some political actions involvement and maybe a new movie. And of course, he just got a new Harley… (Photo credit: Steve Kinderman)
Well done for getting back in the saddle…after all that shit
Don’t know the guy, as I’m the wrong side of the pond, but good on you Dave, keep riding!
A lot more 3 wheelers around now in the UK (not all Harleys)
(maybe its all our wounded soldiers from the latest wars?)
A strong man there. Never give up Dave!
As one who has experienced near-death on the road, I can understand the drive to get back on two (or in this case, three) wheels. Way to go brother, welcome back.
Nice to see your riding again Senator………..good for the heart…
See ya on the road.
RIDE HARD AND DIE FREE BROTHER !!!!!!! YOU ARE THE MAN…
Glad to have you back Senator!
Over & Out,
Jeff
This man is a real biker! Not an ounce of poser blood in him!!! Happy to have him back on the road.
Congrats Dave! Nice ride! You are way to stubborn to let anything stop you!
Welcome back, honored and proud.
Glad to see you enjoying what you like.
Boss Hawg
He is proof that you can’t keep a good man down
WAY COOL DAVE!!! My only regret is that you didn;t contact me to help you with your trike conversion. Bottom line is “YOU Gotter Done!” Iffin’ yer cruzin’ around the country ‘an yer in the Sioux Falls area, I would be honored for a visit from ya. Wiz
WELCOME BACK CARS SUCK ~AND YOU ROCK !!!!
Brother Dave I had gotten the messages about you and Cat and the three wheelers and even that you were getting the Harley.
But seeing you on it is even better.
Looking forward to our next ride together.
Chased down the URL for the movie … Born to Ride… Good news is I read the reviews before parting with my $
Way to go Dave!
Way to go Dave , a inspiration to everyone !!!
Stay in the breeze, Dave! Love and respect……..Larry R.
Dave Welcome back Brother. I have been asking for the last month about Dave’s condition., so it is really Great to hear he is back riding.
Ride Safe
Art J Ca.
No surprise, simply a matter of time. Motorcycling is in his heart and soul and he is too passionate about riding to let even this horrible accident change his philosophy on life.
You were missed in Sturgis, Dave! Can’t wait to see you next year!