(Chang’an University)
This gives the phrase "rides like a tank" a whole new meaning.
China’s Chang’an University has filed a patent for motorcycle that rides on a single track instead of tires, Visor Down reports.
Details are scarce, but the vehicle features a continuous track threaded around at least four wheels and, based on the livery, is intended as a go-anywhere rescue vehicle.
The design brings to mind a pair of proposals submitted to the Michelin Challenge Design competition in 2006, but featured tracks that could be deflected side to side to provide steering, something a single track can’t do well on its own. Unfortunately, neither was ever built to prove the concept. Earlier attempts at this type of ride-on also never met with much success.
However, there are plenty examples of tracked ATVs aimed at snowy and slippery terrain, most of which feature separate tracks front and rear.