| Flying motorcycle needs two licenses |
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| Tuesday, 02 May 2006 | |
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CARTER, Okla., May 2 (UPI) -- A 3-wheeled flying "motorcycle" with an overhead rotating blade has been developed by an Oklahoma pilot/mechanical engineer for mass production.
Various models of "The Butterfly" are sold as a kit, starting at $14,000 for the vehicles, which can be folded down to operate on the road, or expanded to become a high-flying gyroplane, the Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram reported. Designer Larry Neal of Carter, Okla., said buyers must register the gyroplane as an experimental motorcycle, then attach the parts that make it fly and have it registered as an experimental aircraft. That means both a motorcycle and pilot's license are required, he said. His 2-seater, $30,000 version can reach an altitude of 7,000 feet, fly up to 95 mph and cruise at 75 mph for 150 miles before refueling. Neal's thebutterflyllc.com Web site said the company expects "we will be flooded with orders as soon as the first production kits become available." Related Articles:Carbon Fiber Frame TechnologyWhy should you wear a full-face helmet? Seat Cover Replacement The Big Twins are Coming SGI recognizes its platinum customers Gear Review: Knox Back Protector Yamaha MT Motorcycle Series |



