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Harley Reimagined: Jet Engines Replace Conventional Power
10 Oct
Summary
- A Harley-Davidson motorcycle was rebuilt to run on two small jet turbines.
- The custom build reached approximately 97 kmph during initial testing.
- The conversion project demanded over 400 hours of specialized fabrication.
A non-running Harley-Davidson has undergone a radical transformation, now propelled by two compact jet turbines instead of a conventional engine. This extensive project, meticulously crafted by Matt of the Warped for the Bikes and Beards channel, involved over 400 hours of dedicated work.
The turbines, each providing an estimated 336 Newtons of thrust, are mounted beside the rear wheel. They directly generate forward motion, eliminating the need for a gearbox or chain drive, which significantly alters the riding experience.
Fabricating turbine mounts, fuel systems, and control electronics were key challenges. Safety considerations, such as containment shields and delayed stopping response, underscore the specialized nature of this build. The creators estimate the finished motorcycle weighs approximately 159kg.
During testing, the jet-powered Harley achieved a speed of about 97 kmph. While this demonstrates the bike's capability under turbine power, it does not represent a verified top speed. The experience is noted for its lack of traditional vibrations and gear changes, offering a unique motorcycling sensation.
