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Eight years ago, when a motorcycle shop in Ross, Ohio, was preparing for its grand opening — and hoping for a big splash — the owners called Tyler Shepard.

They figured anyone who calls himself "The Wheelie Wizzard" certainly would attract a crowd.

That day, six people showed up for the opener, and Shepard was paid $5, enough for lunch at a fast-food restaurant, a small reward for risking limbs and life.

Now Shepard, a 2002 Edgewood High School and 2006 Miami University graduate, is playing much larger stages, and he has set his sights on the tallest of venues. Shepard recently performed his motorcycle stunt act — the highlight being riding a motorcycle with no front wheel — during a parade before 3,500 spectators in Las Vegas.

"That's a far cry from where I've been," Shepard, 24, said.

And a far cry from where he wants to ride.

For some reason, there's a Guinness Book World Record for riding a wheelie on an electric motorcycle in the highest building.

Not an airplane, mind you. That would be cheating. It must be a building.

Who knew?

The record was set in the Empire State Building, which on the 86th floor observation deck, measures 1,050 feet. Shepard hopes to break that record by riding a wheelie inside the 1,353-foot tall observation deck of the Sears Tower in Chicago.

Until then, and until he can secure the necessary sponsorship, Shepard will continue performing his motorcycle stunts anywhere there's an audience.

His motorcycles are supplied by Mike Dreyer, who owns a dealership in Indianapolis. He travels with his father, Bert, and fiance, Rachel Kelley, 20.

But why? Why motorcycles?

"It's my passion," said the Middletown resident who works for a medical staffing company. "I have a great time with the kids."

Amazingly, Shepard never has been injured. At least not during a motorcycle show. He has been bumped and bruised on a trampoline, playing tennis, falling down steps at home.

Even Evel Knievel stumbled every once in a while.

Contact this columnist at (513) 705-2842 or

rmccrabb@coxohio.com.