Petrol engines dominate the world of the automobile, while electric propulsion races to take an ever larger market share. Despite this, some still hold a flame for steam power. Such aficionados would hold this build in high regard, from the recent past of 2014.
The bike is of a recumbent design, featuring a relaxed riding position well suited to the sophisticated nature of a steam-powered vehicle. Sporting a wooden frame, the build carries a strong steampunk aesthetic. The flash boiler packs 100 feet of copper pipe, and there’s an electric pump and controller to handle water delivery from the stylish brass tank. The setup is capable of producing steam within 30 seconds of startup. Motive power is courtesy of a 1.5 inch bore single-cylinder steam engine, connected to the rear wheel via a belt drive.
There’s something intoxicating about the sounds and smells of a working steam engine, though the threat of catastrophic burns does temper the excitement just a touch. Steam power isn’t going away any time soon – and it’s not just limited to transport applications, either. Video after the break.
[Thanks to sangimmie for the tip!]
Wow. What a nice looking bike. The wooden frame surprised me the most. Although I really like the steambike concept. And the whole thing is very compact, impressive project.
Strangely enough I’ve seen a few wooden recumbent trikes but certainly none that was steam powered
It’s illegal to posess in EU because it does not reduce engine power and does not cut off at 25 km/ч.
Is it just illegal to use on public roadways? In Canada, private off road use only for modified gas, overpowered electric bikes. I use mine on local logging roads.
Awesome looking project, I love the wood frame.
That’s amazing. Using bended ply for the frame is beautiful. I’ve been wanting to build a tad-pole trike for years now. Great, so I have one more option to consider. This isn’t getting any easier!
I wonder how this frame compares to a steel and aluminium in weight and strength. Those font wings look like they could also act like a bit of front wheel shocks.
Be sure to check out AtomicZombie.com for plans and info on building a tadpole trike. It’s a lot easier than most think :-)
Anyone notice the clearance of the gas line? Seems like it would be likely to hit a rock while steaming along. Seems like some risk that could be mitigated with a shield, raising the boiler, or rerouting the gas to the burner.
I don’t think its as bad as it looks – where you get the clearest view of it is on the grass and that makes it look very low, but seems to have OK clearance on the road. Some extra shielding wouldn’t be a bad idea though.
For me just a slight tilt in the boiler so it follows the lines of the bike better would naturally raise the burner a touch, a touch safer and neater apperance. Don’t think it is at all needed though. Not like its designed for off road use.
Did he say “rot gas or propane”?
Rot gas? From composting?
https://rockgas.co.nz/
Thanks!
Uh oh, combining two of my favorite things – bicycles and steam engines. I’m going to need to learn more about flash boilers. Also, would it be allowed on the bike trails? I mean yes it’s motorized, but I’m not sure the law specifically calls out steam powered :-)
If electric bikes are allowed, use the steam engine to power a generator.
depends on the specific definition of motorized vehicle in your country… If there’s anything in the law about internal combustion, you!re off the hook ;-)
While I like steampunk, I don’t think I could pull it off myself. I couldn’t grow that kind of mustache!
Nice, looks like a 19th century automobile.
Amazing creation! Kudos to the builder!
Folk in NZ have some wonderfully weird projects. Did this ever appear on Hackaday?
http://www.asciimation.co.nz/beer/
Thing of beauty.
Did he say it’s got a 230V coffee machine motor in it for the water pump?
Lovely what stroke is the motor.?
That is a very nice project , you’ve done a wonderful job . Here where I live is by power displacement . this would be legal without a license . Thank You for sharing .