Tractor-built penny-farthing style motorcycle
In a quiet corner of New Zealand, a mad genius named Kenny Paton is challenging the boundaries of mechanical possibility. His creation, dubbed “Penny Farming,” is a motorcycle that looks like it rolled straight out of a steampunk fantasy—or perhaps a scrapyard fever dream. Constructed almost entirely from old tractor parts and whatever scrap metal he could scrounge from his barn, this contraption defies conventional design and, frankly, common sense.
The first thing that grabs your attention is the colossal tractor tire dominating the front. It's not just for show; it's mounted to a custom hub Kenny pieced together from leftover steel and oil drums. Behind this behemoth wheel sits a much smaller one, taken from a space-saver hub and fitted with a tractor tire. The juxtaposition is jarring yet oddly harmonious, a nod to the 19th-century penny-farthing bicycles but on a monstrous scale.
Instead of handlebars, a large steering wheel commands the front tire through a series of cables and pulleys. It's an unorthodox choice, to say the least, and one that doesn't promise the most responsive steering. The throttle? That's managed by a stick situated behind the steering wheel, adding another layer of eccentricity to this already unconventional machine.
Powering this beast is an 80-horsepower engine that's seen about 60 years of history. Despite its age, it musters enough force to propel the Penny Farming to a top speed of 15 mph. That may not sound blistering, but when you're perched atop a metal leviathan with questionable balance, it feels plenty fast.
Mounting and dismounting present their own challenges. Traditional penny-farthings required a running start and a leap of faith to get on, but pushing this massive machine isn't practical. Kenny's solution is a set of retractable stabilizer wheels that fold down beside the rear tire with a satisfying clunk. They're meant to keep you upright when stationary, but if the ground isn't perfectly level, they might tip you to one side—a thrilling prospect when you're sitting so high off the ground.
The chassis is a patchwork of scrap steel, and the aesthetic is completed with a ride-on lawnmower grille up front and an old tractor seat at the rear. It's as if Kenny wanted to pay homage to every piece of farm equipment he's ever encountered, all rolled into one audacious project.
When asked about the risks—like what happens if it tips over—Kenny just chuckles. “Hopefully, pick it up and keep going,” he says with a twinkle in his eye. Despite its ungainly appearance, he insists the motorcycle is surprisingly lightweight, though exact figures remain a mystery.
Watching the Penny Farming in action is both mesmerizing and nerve-wracking. It's a symphony of clanks and roars, a testament to Kenny's two years of relentless tinkering. He's recently added a pedal clutch and a rear brake to ease the strain on the front wheel, tweaks that indicate he's serious about taking this monster on a real-world test drive soon.
This isn't just a motorcycle; it's a rebellious statement against the polished, cookie-cutter designs that dominate the industry. It's a celebration of ingenuity, a middle finger to practicality, and a thrilling ride for those who dare. In a world obsessed with perfection and efficiency, the Penny Farming reminds us of the beauty found in raw creativity and unbridled passion.
Pros:
- Unique Design and Creativity: The Penny Farming motorcycle is a one-of-a-kind creation that showcases remarkable ingenuity by repurposing old tractor parts and scrap metal into a functional vehicle.
- Engineering Achievement: Constructing a working motorcycle from unconventional materials demonstrates impressive mechanical skills and innovative problem-solving.
- Homage to Historical Bicycles: The design pays tribute to the classic penny-farthing bicycles of the 19th century, blending historical aesthetics with modern mechanics.
- Sustainability: Utilizing recycled materials promotes environmental consciousness by reducing waste and giving new life to discarded components.
- Conversation Starter: Its striking and unconventional appearance naturally draws attention, sparking interest and discussions among onlookers and enthusiasts.
- Lightweight Construction: Despite its sizable components, the creator mentions that the motorcycle is surprisingly lightweight, which could enhance maneuverability.
Cons:
- Safety Concerns: The unconventional design poses significant safety risks, including potential instability and difficulty maintaining balance due to the large front wheel and high seat position.
- Unresponsive Steering: Steering is managed through a wheel connected by cables and pulleys, which may result in sluggish or unpredictable handling, making control challenging.
- Mounting and Dismounting Difficulties: The high seating position and lack of conventional support make getting on and off the motorcycle cumbersome and potentially hazardous.
- Stability Issues on Uneven Ground: The retractable stabilizer wheels may not provide adequate support on slanted or uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of tipping over when stationary.
- Limited Top Speed: With a maximum speed of 15 mph (24 km/h), the motorcycle is not practical for covering long distances or keeping up with standard traffic flow.
- Comfort Limitations: The use of a tractor seat and potential vibrations from the unrefined construction could lead to an uncomfortable riding experience.
- Regulatory Compliance: The motorcycle may not meet legal safety and emission standards required for road use, which could restrict its operation to private properties or events.
- Maintenance Challenges: Finding replacement parts or servicing the motorcycle could be difficult due to its custom-built nature from assorted scrap components.
- Environmental Impact of the Engine: The 60-year-old 80-hp engine may not be fuel-efficient and could produce higher emissions compared to modern engines.
- Practicality Issues: While it stands as an impressive artistic and engineering project, the motorcycle lacks practicality for everyday use or reliable transportation.
