Who needs a hydrofoil bike? I’m not sure, but when the guys from Manta5 put a video of their hydrofoil bike online they told me it went virtual very fast with 350 million views on Facebook! Interested too? Here’s the info. The Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1, world’s first production hydrofoil bike launched in the U.S. at CES2020. Using the same technology as America’s Cup sailboats it’s the first bike of its kind to replicate the cycling experience on water. The Hydrofoiler redefines cycling and watersports by enabling riders to launch and plane through open bodies of water — from ocean shorelines to lakes and rivers. (I asked about rough water and the spokesperson said you really don’t want to venture out into big waves.) Cyclists can reach speeds of up to 12 mph, comparable to the speed of traditional sailboats. The bikes are made from strong carbon fiber and aircraft-grade aluminum, making them buoyant and light enough to carry. Some Key Specs: Up to 60 minutes of riding time. IP68 waterproof battery. 460 watt-electric motor. Aircraft-grade aluminum frame and carbon fiber hydrofoils. 63 pounds (including foils and battery) 12 mph (11 knots) maximum speed ? U.S. MSRP $7,495 (excluding taxes and shipping). Preorder reservations are currently available for a 50% deposit. (In the video, the spokesperson says 10% deposit, but you can check it out on their website:
Known as MAD’s Maddest Writer, co-host of The Giz Wiz with OMGchad at www.GizWiz.TV, The Giz Wiz on ABC’s World News Now, and on Tech Guy Labs with Leo Laporte on www.TWiT.TV.
