The Tyco X-Treme Cycle Jeremy McGrath is a radio controlled Motocross bike, stylized to resemble the 'King of Motocross' Jeremy McGrath in the late 90s. Manufactured by Taiyo (Japan), and carrying all the expected licensing and branding from the era, it was released in 1999 across the US, UK, and other countries worldwide.
Technology
The X-Treme Cycle's ability to balance perfectly on two wheels and corner in the expected fashion was the culmination of many years of research and development. This included several patents by Taiyo (Japan) and its founder Shohei Suto. Taiyo's designs, which incorporated gyroscopic control, led to the release of numerous radio-controlled motorbikes in the 1990s and 2000s of different sizes and battery types, all using similar names despite significant differences.
This late 90s model is powered by an improved 7.2V NiMh FlexPack, as were other Tyco RC Motorbikes of the era, such as the 2001 Tyco Xtreme Moto-X Cycle (Travis Pastrana).
Features and Performance
Out of the box, the X-Treme Cycle isn't what I'd call fast, but is just right for what it is. Any faster and kids would find it uncontrollable, and any slower they'd get bored fast. In fact it's perfect for scooting around indoors, going off makeshift jumps and trying not to crash.
As with all Toy RC models there's always room for improvement! On YouTube you can find several videos of Tyco motorbikes of many types which have been upgraded with lithium polymer batteries, including the Tyco X-Treme cycle (below), and my personal favorite, the Travis Pastrana.
Collectability and Availability
As Tyco RC motocross bikes alone, these are fantastic toys that would sell well at any toy store today, more than 20 years later. The fact they're licensed and emblazoned by some of motocross/supercross's greatest champions makes them even more special.
Thankfully you can find high quality boxed models fairly easily on eBay, with the occasional autographed box, surely a favorite amongst collectors. And with the ease of which you can double the power output with a simple battery upgrade (well, simple for anyone familiar with hobby grade electronics), I can see these being sought after for a long time, and only accumulating in value.
