It must be bike hacking month this month as following on from the recently published flying bike, Colin Furze who has also been responsible for creating the motorised baby carriage has this week published a video of his jet powered bicycle kicking a field test runs and nearly passing 50 mph.
The bike created by Colin is a 70lb valveless jet cycle and shows just what can be done with an old bike, a bass cylinder, and a little ingenuity. Colin explains a little more about the project.
“An old woman’s bike built for shopping turned into a bomb inspired safety hazard. This is the final part in my series on the wonderful pulse jet and what an end. The jet will push the bike a little faster but it’s staying on that’s the challenge as some of the more keen-eyed people will have noticed the side shaking. Yes, we could have cured it with a better frame, better wheels, etc., but I like that it’s a shit bike and still is.”
The Engineering Behind the Jet-Powered Bike
The jet-powered bike is not just a whimsical creation; it is a testament to Colin Furze’s engineering prowess and creativity. The valveless pulse jet engine, which powers the bike, is a type of jet engine that operates on the principle of intermittent combustion. Unlike traditional jet engines, it has no moving parts, making it simpler but also more challenging to control. The engine works by igniting a fuel-air mixture in a combustion chamber, creating a series of rapid explosions that produce thrust.
Colin’s choice of an old woman’s bike for this project adds an element of humor and irony. The bike, originally designed for leisurely shopping trips, is now a high-speed, fire-breathing machine. This juxtaposition highlights Colin’s unique approach to engineering, where functionality meets fun.
Challenges and Safety Concerns
One of the most significant challenges Colin faced was ensuring the bike’s stability at high speeds. As he mentioned, the side shaking was a notable issue. This instability is primarily due to the bike’s original design, which was never intended to handle the forces generated by a jet engine. Upgrading the frame and wheels could have mitigated this problem, but Colin chose to keep the bike as close to its original form as possible. This decision adds to the project’s charm but also underscores the importance of safety in such experimental endeavors.
Another critical aspect is the heat generated by the jet engine. Pulse jet engines can reach extremely high temperatures, posing a risk to both the rider and the bike’s structural integrity. Colin had to ensure that the engine was adequately insulated and that the bike’s components could withstand the heat. This required careful planning and precise engineering.
You can also see in the video below how Colin built his awesome jet powered bike.
The video showcases the entire build process, from the initial concept to the final test runs. It provides a fascinating insight into the world of DIY engineering and the challenges involved in creating such a unique vehicle. Colin’s enthusiasm and passion for his projects are evident throughout the video, making it an engaging watch for anyone interested in engineering, mechanics, or just cool gadgets.
In conclusion, Colin Furze’s jet-powered bike is a remarkable example of what can be achieved with creativity, engineering skills, and a willingness to take risks. It serves as an inspiration for aspiring inventors and a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary creations come from the most unexpected places.
Source: Gizmodo
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