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I Saw the Ultimate Rocket Bike in Action and It Blew Me Away
CNET • • technology
Key Points:
- Graham Sykes rides a unique steam-powered rocket bike called Force of Nature, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under half a second and reaching speeds over 200 mph.
- The bike features a 120-liter boiler heated to around 260°C, generating immense pressure that propels the bike, with most components handmade by Sykes except for the safety-critical boiler sourced from a specialized manufacturer.
- Despite the inherent dangers, Sykes remains calm and passionate, inspired by past rocket bike attempts and driven by the challenge of pushing steam propulsion limits in drag racing.
- Although the bike did not break records during the observed run, Sykes and his team have previously achieved a 5-second quarter mile and 200 mph pass, aiming to reach a 4-second run in the future.
- The project also serves to demonstrate the power and modern relevance of steam technology, challenging perceptions of steam as outdated by showcasing its capabilities in high-speed motorsport.
