One of the episode's most enduring legacies is its showcase of the . Clarkson described it as "a deserted ribbon of perfection—one of the best coast roads in the world". This segment is credited with sparking a massive surge in international "motorbike backpacking" across Vietnam. Your Reading List for Travelling Vietnam | by Sam Richards
The shots of the Hai Van Pass (which they call “a deserted ribbon of joy”) are breathtaking. The director’s choice to film the bikes from helicopters, boats, and even strapped to the sidecars captures Vietnam’s diversity: chaotic cities, coastal cliffs, rice paddies, and foggy mountains. top gear vietnam
The Vietnam Special is Top Gear at its peak: three middle-aged men, hopelessly out of their depth, on cheap motorcycles, in one of the most beautiful countries on Earth. It’s funny, heartfelt, and visually stunning. Even non-car people love it. If you’ve only seen one Top Gear special, you’ve probably seen this one—and if you haven’t, it’s essential viewing. One of the episode's most enduring legacies is
The backup vehicle, should any bike fail, was a Honda Chaly painted in American "Stars and Stripes" livery that blasted Bruce Springsteen's "Born in the U.S.A." on a loop. Your Reading List for Travelling Vietnam | by
Clarkson, Hammond, and May buy cheap, hideous tailored suits in a market, then ride to a pier where they see a gigantic American aircraft carrier in the distance (the USS John C. Stennis ). Clarkson delivers a deadpan line: “Just a gentle reminder of who won that little disagreement.” It’s dark, brilliant, and perfectly Top Gear .