Evel Knievel
By Euphrates



What boy, in the early '70s, didn't find a plank of wood, set it up at an angle over 
a cinder block or a tire and then attempt to run his Western Flyer at dizzying speeds
up the "ramp" inevitably crashing at the end because the bottom of the "ramp" wasn't 
anchored properly?  Then, you and a friend review the failed jump, make some 
adjustments and you're back on the bike to give it another go.  Why did we spend all 
day doing this?  Evel Knievel!

In 1972, Ideal celebrated this daredevil's heroics and influence on adolescents by 
releasing his likeness as a 6-inch figure along with a bunch of neato accessories.  
The basic figure came with a helmet, white jumpsuit, shoes and a cane.  Yes, a cane.  
His bottom is marked 1972 Ideal Hong Kong  His body was a bendy with plastic hands 
and a vinyl head.

One of the neatest pieces made for Evel is the Stunt World playset from 1975.  It came 
in a vinyl case with a picture of Snake River Canyon on the side.  Included was a plastic 
jump ramp, motorcycle, truck and rocket car with trailer.  This set enabled you to take
Evel and his wheels on the road or at least down the block to your buddy's house.

Ideal provided Evel with a large variety of powerful vehicles and playsets including:





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