AVUS Motorradfahrer Denkmal

Amidst the urban hum of Berlin, a monument freezes a moment of intense speed and daring. The AVUS Motorradfahrer Denkmal captures the thrill of motorcycle racing on the legendary AVUS track. This sculpture, located near the ICC, isn’t just a static display. It’s a portal to a bygone era of roaring engines and wind-whipped champions. The AVUS, or Automobil-Verkehrs-und Übungsstraße, was more than just a road. It was the first controlled-access highway in Europe, a testing ground for road construction, and a thrilling racetrack. Opened in 1921 with a car race, it hosted its first motorcycle race in 1922. The AVUS Motorradfahrer Denkmal immortalizes two giants of motorcycle racing: Ernst Henne and Ewald Kluge. Sculpted by Max Esser, the figures lean aggressively into the wind, mirroring the racers’ posture at high speeds. Henne, nicknamed “Schnelle Henne” (Fast Henne), is depicted on his BMW. He lived an incredibly long life, passing away in 2005 at the age of 101. Kluge, riding his DKW, was a four-time German champion and two-time European champion. Originally, a third racer, Heiner Fleischmann on his NSU, was part of the sculpture. Sadly, this piece was lost during the turmoil of World War II. The two surviving figures were cast before the war but not erected until 1989, after being featured in the “Berlin-Berlin” exhibition. They stand proudly on a brick pedestal, a testament to the enduring spirit of motorsport. Even today, you can almost hear the roar of the engines and feel the rush of wind as these two speed demons battled for victory on the AVUS. The AVUS Motorradfahrer Denkmal is a hidden gem, tucked away near the Nordkurve of what is now the A 115 autobahn. It’s a tribute to a time when the AVUS was a stage for both everyday traffic and thrilling races, a unique blend of practicality and passion. A visit here offers not just a glimpse into the history of motorsports, but also a quiet moment of appreciation for the artistry and skill of both the sculptor and the racers he immortalized.