By 2023 the world’s first flying motorcycle will be available. According to the Speeder’s design team, the sci-fi sky-bike recently passed flight tests. They anticipate that it will be commercially available by 2023.
Flying cars and people with jet packs are already a reality, so why not flying motorcycles?
Jetpack Aviation, which already manufactures vertical people propellers, recently announced the successful test flight of its jet-powered flying motorcycle prototype. The expected performance is Easy Rider-worthy bad-assery, and the California company plans to release two consumer versions for everyday users.
To monitor and adjust the thrust on the Speeder, Jetpack Aviation had to write its own flight-control software program. The result of that year-and-a-half of work is an easy-to-use system that operates like a standard motorcycle and automatically stabilizes the machine in flight. It can take off and land vertically from most surfaces in about the same amount of space as a car, and it can be programmed to fly autonomously.
Although the original design called for four turbines (as shown in the images accompanying this article), the final product will have eight, two at each corner of the bike to provide redundancy and safety. They will also provide impressive power, allowing the Speeder, which weighs around 300 pounds, to carry 600 pounds, a size-to-payload ratio that distinguishes the Speeder from other VTOL craft. Hand controls, a 12-inch navigation screen, and a radio system are also included with the air cycle.
Before construction is completed, an updated Speeder 2.0 prototype will go through more intensive testing this summer and fall. Testing is set to start in early 2022. Jetpack has agreed to use Prometheus Fuels, Inc.’s 100 percent zero net-carbon fuel for all of its own operations, including future testing.
Commercial versions with detachable wings for increased range, storage compartments for fire retardant, medical personnel and equipment, or injured passengers will also be available in the future. By 2023 the world’s first flying motorcycle will be available.
