Francois Gissy has set a new world record on his rocket-powered bicycle of 285 KM per hour, breaking his previous record of 263 KM per hour. Remarkably, it took him just 6.7 seconds to reach the 263 KM per hour mark, which is around 177 miles per hour.
The 285 KM per hour record was set in Interlaken, Switzerland, and the record attempt was sponsored by Swiss luxury watchmaker Hublot. This incredible feat showcases not only Gissy’s daring spirit but also the potential of innovative engineering in pushing the boundaries of speed on two wheels.
The Engineering Behind the Rocket Bike
The video below shows the record being set. Gissy’s bicycle was powered by a canister of concentrated hydrogen peroxide. This chemical reacts with a catalyst to produce a high-pressure steam and oxygen mixture, which is expelled through a nozzle to generate thrust. This method of propulsion is similar to that used in rocket engines, albeit on a much smaller scale. The hydrogen peroxide used in Gissy’s bike was highly concentrated, around 90%, which is significantly more potent than the 3% solution commonly found in household products.
Gissy managed to complete a quarter-mile run in just 7.3 seconds. The track was 790 meters long, and it took 250 meters for the acceleration part of the record attempt, with the rest of the track used for braking. The braking system was just as crucial as the propulsion, given the immense speeds involved. Gissy’s bike was equipped with high-performance disc brakes and a parachute to ensure he could come to a safe stop.
Historical Context and Comparisons
The previous certified world record was held by Fred Rompelberg, who managed a speed of 268.8 KM per hour slipstreaming behind a dragster back in 1995. Rompelberg’s record was achieved using a different technique, where he rode in the aerodynamic slipstream created by a dragster, significantly reducing air resistance. In contrast, Gissy’s record was set using pure rocket power, making his achievement even more remarkable.
The concept of rocket-powered bicycles is not entirely new. In the 1920s and 1930s, there were several attempts to create rocket-propelled vehicles, including bicycles. However, these early experiments were often dangerous and lacked the sophisticated engineering and safety measures seen in modern attempts. Gissy’s record is a testament to how far technology has come, allowing for safer and more controlled high-speed endeavors.
The implications of Gissy’s achievement extend beyond just setting a new speed record. It highlights the potential for alternative propulsion methods in various fields, including transportation and sports. While rocket-powered bicycles are not practical for everyday use, the technology and engineering principles behind them could inspire innovations in other areas.
In conclusion, Francois Gissy’s new world record of 285 KM per hour on a rocket-powered bicycle is a remarkable achievement that pushes the boundaries of what is possible on two wheels. Sponsored by Hublot and set in the picturesque town of Interlaken, Switzerland, this record showcases the incredible potential of combining human daring with cutting-edge engineering. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more astonishing feats in the world of high-speed records.
Source Gizmag
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