Aquatic Motorcycle Makes Waves

Resembling a motorcycle inside and out, the Jetbike makes it possible to experience the thrills of a bike on the safety of the water. The watercraft is designed with the same controls, suspension, and steering capabilities as a motorcycle; but its engine is cooled by seawater. In fact, when riding at speeds below 7 miles per hour, the engine is entirely under water.

In the biking world, the Jetbike presents the opportunity to literally go wild. Without the fear of broken bones and damage to the bike, riders can attempt tricks they would never have the guts to attempt on blacktop.

In the world of water sports, the Jetbike introduces speed unlike any other watercraft, much to the pleasure of adrenaline junkies worldwide. At 60 miles per hour, the possibilities are endless, including the potential for Jetbike racing once mass production begins.

Aquajet's website describes the Jetbike as "a Grand Prix motorcycle-styled aquatic superbike."

"The Jetbike represents the 'invention of a new sport'—the sport of motorcycling on water," reads Aquajet's website. "The Jetbike is a cross between a motorcycle and a Jet Ski. The principle difference between the Jetbike and all other personal watercraft is that the Jetbike has patented dual, simultaneously controlled, front and rear steering and is very narrow, like a motorcycle."

Because of the fact that the Jetbike can be steered at both ends, the ride feels similar to that of a motorcycle; and it can even be steered when not being throttled, a feature that is particularly beneficial given the bike's capacity for speed. Also, the narrow design of the body allows the rider to lean the Jetbike into curves, just as you would a motorcycle.

"This design provides superior handling and safety features that no other watercraft offers," Aquajet's website stated. "All other PWC [personal watercraft] are essentially small boats that require little skill, offer the rider almost no challenge, and are unsteerable in an 'off-throttle' condition."

The body of the bike features ergonomically correct seating, bold colors, foot step, rear handle, headlight, brake light, and a large storage box. The handle has a twist-grip throttle like the ones found on motorcycles, making the ride easier on the driver's hands. Also, in order to make it simple to climb aboard, the bike actually dips down into the water when pressure is put on it.

Although it may seem like a motorcycle made for water would be difficult to balance, the Jetbike is positioned with all of its mechanical parts grouped together in a low center of gravity, creating a machine that is balanced and capable of righting itself.

When it comes to tricks, the Jetbike's potential is limitless. Upon mass production, the bike is sure to inspire its very own legion of water sports enthusiasts dedicated to inventing new and daring ways to show off their fearlessness while testing the machine's abilities.

Think ramps and half-pipes. Think in-air acrobatics. Think motocross racing. Then add water.

In addition to in-air tricks courtesy of wave-gained momentum, the bike has the ability to be ridden completely immersed below the surface of the water before rocketing up and out.

One of the best things about the Jetbike, though, is its versatility. Because of its sit-down riding position, it can easily be ridden as a pleasure craft. However, its small size and motorcycle-esque build make it a welcome challenge for experienced water sports enthusiasts.

In addition, these super-stealth water toys are being touted as the next big thing in military operations. Working alongside Vehicle Design Force, Aquajet designed a special model for exclusive use by the military, complete with surveillance capabilities and a high-tech weapon system.

Speedier than current watercrafts and small enough to be dropped out of a plane, the Jetbike is perfect for surveillance operations offshore while still providing easy access to land if needed; and when sitting still, the bike rests a mere one foot out of the water. Radar, GPS, and night-vision programs are just a sampling of the features set to be installed on the military model.

So far, public support for the Jetbike has been overwhelming, with those in the water sports arena practically drooling over the idea of it. However, Aquajet is holding off on mass production until it finds the appropriate investors.

After the first production cycle, many units sold for $20,000. During the next phase of production, the price of the Jetbike will be contingent upon the number of bikes produced. Currently, Aquajet is taking direct orders for custom-built Jetbikes through its website at aquajet.com.