In 2024, Shadow the Hedgehog fans were excited to see a real-life Dark Rider motorcycle, iconic to the character, showcased at the MotoGP Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas. This event marked the beginning of a year that was officially declared the Year of Shadow by Sega. The Dark Rider first appeared in Shadow the Hedgehog, released in 2005. It represented a departure from the traditional Sonic games, with new elements and a unique style.
Since then, Shadow has featured the Dark Rider in various games, including racing games featuring the Sonic cast. Interestingly, 2024 saw another video game motorcycle being turned into a real-life vehicle, as the Pokemon Company teamed up with Toyota to create a motorbike modeled after Pokemon Violet’s Miraidon. However, there was no indication that either motorcycle would be mass-produced for fans to purchase and ride. Despite this, many Sonic fans expressed interest in owning a real-life Dark Rider.
The motorcycle’s appearance and the declaration of 2024 as the Year of Shadow generated excitement among Sonic enthusiasts.
