Ultimate Chopper

http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g103/GreyGoose006/radialmotorcycle.jpg
http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g103/GreyGoose006/radialbike.jpg

word is that it was built by jesse james.
its called the kneeslider.
thats a 7 cylinder radial aircraft replica engine. it makes 150 or so horsepower. probably a ton of torque.

can you imagine trying to stay upright on that thing when you crack the throttle?
the rotational torque must be huge.

That is the coolest thing I've seen in a while. And you ain't kiddin' on the rotational force. Think of the BMW's and Honda 500 twins and how they twist side to side, and multiply it by 100.

Was not built by Jesse James. Kneeslider is the E-zine that featured these pics.

On there they have pics of another one that's unfinished that has a similar motor, but in a sideways layout rather than face-foreward as it mounts in a plane. Weird stuff.

Phenomenal waste of resources to create something mostly unrideable, but cool too..

http://thekneeslider.com/images/radialmotorcycle2.jpg

Since aircraft radials are highly dependant on fast moving airflow for cooling, I can't see either design being capable of being ridden around town, especially the one above, the rear cylinders would probably melt down pretty quick.

well it probably has a radiator mounted on the other side that you cant see.
these arent traditional "spinning" radial engines either.

they work like this
http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g103/GreyGoose006/Radial_engine.gif
(hopefully the pic works.)

either way, you are right that it isnt very practical

Love It Either Way....shows No End To The Designs

Thats pretty sick dude..just when you think you seen it all.

Since aircraft radials are highly dependant on fast moving airflow for cooling,

Kinda like a Harley!

modern harleys have radiators on their "big bikes"

modern harleys have radiators on their "big bikes"

What, the V-Rod? Isn't that the only one though?

i thought the touring bikes had radiators too

i thought the touring bikes had radiators too

Nope, just the V Rod.

"The Kneeslider"

This longitudinal engine arrangement seems more natural for a motorcycle, better clearance for cornering, however, cooling the rear cylinders would definitely be a problem. Yesterday’s transverse arrangement is great for cooling and correct for the engine’s design but it presents clearance problems, not only straight up for the bottom cylinder but when leaned in either direction, as well.
I can’t believe these bikes will be much more than showpieces when done, who could actually ride them? Still, I think radial engines are among the best looking engines ever designed and these Rotecs are small enough to put in all sorts of different things, airplanes look great with a big radial out front but there are always cars, boats, you name it. But you have to give these guys credit, a radial engined motorcycle, superb!

heres some links a article and a link to JRL cycles.
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/19/1258/Motorcycle-Article/Customs-JRL-Cycles--Radial-Chopper.aspx
http://www.jrlcycles.com/page/page/4187437.htm