Bike builder Tom Donhou — the namesake behind Britain’s Donhou Bicycles — has a dream, and possibly a death wish. He wants to ride a pedal-powered bike up to 160km/h, and he’s hoping this somewhat ludicrous creation is the bicycle that will let him do it.
As far as bikes go Tom’s creation is pretty run-of-the-mill — at least compared to other record setters that have used streamlined cockpits and expensive exotic building materials. This bike is made of steel and shares a similar triangle frame design to the millions used around the world. What does set it apart is the dropped handlebars for improved aerodynamics, and of course the massive 17-inch, 104-tooth chain ring that looks ready to saw off Tom’s legs.
The bike has already hit 100km/h, and with the help of a lead vehicle that will minimise wind resistance ahead of him, Tom is confident he can hit 160km/h on his creation. Of course, whether or not his brakes will hold up at that speed is another question, but no one has ever really cared how quickly someone can stop. [Donhou via NPR via Damn Geeky]