These days it’s safe to say that a large section of motorbike news is taken up by the latest, innovative electric bike. However, it’s not just quirky e-bikes that can grab some attention, as an absolutely unique two-wheeler has been created, called The Black Pearl, which of course has been influenced by the Pirates of the Caribean films.
Unlike the iconic sea vessel of the silver screen, the motorcycle is a land based vehicle, which is powered by steam! This attention-grabbing, one-of-a-kind steam engined motorbike was built by Dutch bike builder René van Tuil, of Revatu Customs.
Looking like a curious cross between a standard Chopper motorcycle and an old steam engine, the bike is actually powered by coal, and moves in a really unique way thanks to its eye-catching design. It’s not likely to break any speed records, as it can only achieve a top speed of 5 mph. But the bike’s highly-detailed steampunk design is what makes this motorcycle so fascinating.
Steam powered motorbikes aren’t anything new of course, as some of the earliest motorcycle designs were run by steam engines. Some early models are accredited to Pierre Michaux, a blacksmith in Paris, who founded ‘Michaux et Cie’ (“Michaux and company”) in 1860. The company soon provided the Michaux-Perreaux steam velocipede in 1867.
This latest steam-powered motorcycle was unveiled in all its glory at the Bigtwin Bike Show in Rosmalen, Holland; with its coal powered engine, rear wheel drive, and extra additions like the bell and steam horn. There was even a poster of Captain Jack Sparrow himself next to the bike as well.
Even though the pirates inspiration is obvious, it’s likely that the owner drew inspiration from a 2011 design by Colby Higgins. This other motorcycle was named the Train Wreck Bike, and drew considerable publicity due to its steampunk style and use of old fashioned mechanics.
It’s clear that René van Tuil’s creation stays true to the Train Wreck’s design, as the locomotive inspiration is clear from every angle. The rear wheels are rotated by means of an eccentric pivot on an exposed crankshaft. This design manages to perfectly mimic the engine of a stream train, both visually and mechanically. It’s true that this steam-powered motorcycle won’t be getting anywhere fast, but it’s certainly turning heads amongst the motorbike community.
