The 1985 Pulse Autocycle: A Unique Blend of Motorcycle and Aviation Dreams
In the mid-1980s, the release of the film Top Gun ignited a surge of interest in aviation, inspiring many to dream of soaring through the skies as fighter pilots. While some pursued flight school, others found their aspirations grounded. For those yearning for a taste of the skies without leaving the ground, the 1985 Pulse Autocycle emerged as a fascinating alternative. This unconventional vehicle, a hybrid of motorcycle, car, and airplane, encapsulated the thrill of flight in a unique package.
The Vision Behind the Pulse Autocycle
Designed by aviation innovator Jim Bede, the Pulse Autocycle was produced by the Owosso Motor Company in Michigan from 1985 to 1990. Bede, who gained fame for his compact Bede BD-5J aircraft featured in the 1983 James Bond film Octopussy, sought to create a vehicle that combined the excitement of flying with the practicality of ground transportation. The Pulse Autocycle was the result of this vision, and only about 326 units were ever manufactured, making it a rare find today.
Currently, chassis number 162 is available for sale on Bring a Trailer, drawing attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike.
A Design That Stands Out
The Pulse Autocycle’s design is striking, featuring a red fiberglass body that resembles the fuselage of a fighter jet. Its sleek steel tube frame supports a tinted acrylic canopy that opens to reveal tandem seating for two, adorned with brown vinyl and striped accents. The vehicle’s unique outriggers, which house 8-inch trailer wheels, serve as stabilizers, ensuring balance during turns and stops. This design choice nods to its motorcycle heritage, as only three of its four wheels touch the ground at any given time.
In a recent refurbishment, Progressive Suspension shocks were upgraded to enhance the ride quality, while 13-inch main wheels equipped with Achilles tires and disc brakes provide reliable traction and stopping power.
Inside the Pulse: A Pilot’s Experience
Stepping inside the Pulse Autocycle is akin to entering a low-cost flight simulator. Instead of a traditional steering wheel, drivers are greeted by a three-spoke wheel, complemented by a Nippon-Seiki/XS400 instrument cluster featuring an 85-mph speedometer and a 12,000-rpm tachometer. The vehicle is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, operated via a stick located at the driver’s right elbow, and includes an electric reverse unit for added convenience.
Despite its age, the Pulse Autocycle retains a nostalgic charm, complete with a Pioneer cassette stereo, lap belts, and a map pocket. The odometer reads approximately 18,000 miles, although the actual mileage remains uncertain due to years of storage.
Powering the Pulse: A Motorcycle Engine
At the heart of the Pulse Autocycle lies a 399cc Yamaha 4-stroke parallel twin engine, originally from the XS400 model. This engine was installed in 2023 by 2 Wheels Heaven in Orlando, Florida, and features dual 32mm Mikuni carburetors along with Yamaha’s Induction Control System. A BikeMaster gold-tone drive chain transmits power to the rear wheel, while chrome megaphone mufflers produce a distinctive exhaust note.
The recent refurbishment process included cleaning the carburetors and fuel tank, as well as replacing clutch components, batteries, stator, and seals, ensuring that this unique vehicle is ready for its next adventure.
A Rich History and Future Prospects
Chassis number 162 has a storied past, having been stored like a relic after its initial run in New Jersey in 1987. The second owner acquired it in 2017, and the current owner purchased it in 2019, undertaking a restoration that included repainting the nose cone following a minor accident in 1987. The sale of this Pulse Autocycle includes a bespoke cover, the original engine, a tow bar, aircraft wheel chocks, spare parts, and a complete repair history, making it a treasure trove for any automotive enthusiast.
The Pulse Autocycle in Context
The Pulse Autocycle stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of the 1980s, a time when the boundaries between different modes of transportation were being explored. It reflects a cultural moment when the allure of flight captured the imagination of many, and the desire for speed and adventure was at an all-time high.
In comparison to other vehicles of its time, the Pulse Autocycle is a unique blend of engineering and design, reminiscent of the era’s fascination with futuristic concepts. While vehicles like the DeLorean DMC-12 and the Lamborghini Countach captured the essence of luxury and speed, the Pulse Autocycle offered a different kind of thrill-one that combined the freedom of the open road with the dream of flight.
Conclusion
The 1985 Pulse Autocycle is more than just a vehicle; it is a symbol of a bygone era filled with dreams of flight and adventure. With its unique design, innovative engineering, and rich history, it continues to captivate the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts. As chassis number 162 finds its way to a new owner, it carries with it the legacy of a time when the sky was not the limit, but merely the beginning of a thrilling journey.
