The Skyrider X1 is a type of road bike that can be transformed into an airplane to fly. A publicity stunt or a truly ambitious plan?
Oh MotorMotor Or a flying scooter, here’s Richter’s ambitious project. The Skyrider X1 exists and is currently on display at CES 2025 in Los Angeles. VegasVegas. Enough to draw attention to a company that currently only markets the K1, an electric-assisted bicycle similar to a mini bike.
A stroke of marketing genius or a real project? The Skyrider X1 just “will be”. World’s first flying amphibious motorcycle “, according to Richter’s press release. However, the amphibious concept is ambiguous, as there is no indication that the craft could be used as a small boat. As for its use on the road, The rear wheel is supported by two small casters, no doubt to stabilize a vehicle that must be too heavy to rest on its two main wheels.
side AeronoffAeronoffthe Skyrider X1 has four deployable arms, equipped with two motors at each end. The device is designed to take off and land vertically like popular flying taxis. According to Richter, there is no need for aeronautical skills or flying lessons, everything from take-off to landing is automated. All you have to do is indicate the destination you want to go to and the onboard computer will take care of the navigation itself. A joystick is also available, if you want to control the machine manually.
Performance and security
In terms of performance, vitessevitesse The maximum speed will be 100 kmph. For autonomy, the device is available in two versions. The X1 SL model and its 10.5 kWh battery promise up to 25 minutes of flight time. An autocracy undoubtedly exaggerated by Rector and a DurationDuration In any case insufficient to be able to fly with complete safety. Another model, the X1 SX, doubles the battery capacity to 40 minutes of flight time.
Talking about safety, the flight control system on board will be tripled. Richter says the craft can continue to fly even with a failed engine. There is also a sail parachute in case of a major problem. And so that the vehicle remains light and can withstand the stresses of the road, the seals and arms are designed. Carbon fiberCarbon fiber AndAluminiumAluminium Aeronautical standards.
Coming soon. Really?
At the show, it is said that the Skyrider X1 will go on sale early next year, starting at $60,000. If it could indeed be road-approved, it is hard to believe that such a machine would be certified by aeronautical authorities to operate in air traffic. It is precisely at this point that most eVTOLs, otherwise known as flying taxis, stumble. Apart from China, no other country has given such approval.
