Irving Janke, a test rider for Harley-Davidson, held a pivotal role as the first to pilot the factory's latest innovations onto the racing circuit. Initially overshadowed by the prominent figures like Ray Weishaar and Floyd Clymer, Janke's significance within Harley's original Wrecking Crew cannot be overstated. Despite his understated demeanor, Janke marked his place in history by clinching victory at the Dodge City 300 in 1916, a triumph that highlighted his prowess amidst formidable competition. Born in Milwaukee in 1896, Janke's early passion for motorcycles propelled him into the racing scene at a tender age. His transition to professional racing seamlessly followed his tenure as a Harley test rider, where his intimate knowledge of the machines undoubtedly influenced his success on the track. Noteworthy victories, such as his triumph at the Uniontown Hillclimb in 1915, foreshadowed his monumental win at Dodge City the following year. The 1916 race, a grueling test of endurance amid scorching temperatures, saw Janke emerge victorious, setting a new record for speed and earning accolades for both himself and the Harley team. Despite the hiatus imposed by World War I, Janke's legacy endured, solidifying his status as a pioneer in motorcycle racing. Post-retirement, he found new purpose as a motorcycle police officer in Milwaukee before settling in Florida, where he passed away in 1957. While Janke may dwell in the shadows of his more celebrated counterparts, his triumphs on the track and his role in shaping Harley-Davidson's racing legacy ensure his place in the annals of motorcycle history.