Two YouTube creators have transformed a Harley-Davidson into a motorcycle powered by jet turbines rather than a conventional engine, transmission, or drivetrain. The unusual machine reportedly reached 60 mph during testing, with its rear wheel driven entirely by thrust from two micro-turbines.

The project began when Sean Kerr of Bikes and Beards sent a non-running Harley to Matt at Warped. The motorcycle’s original engine had exposed pistons and missing cylinder heads and walls, leaving little worth retaining. Matt removed the remaining components and rebuilt the bike around the turbine system.

Two turbines replace the V-twin

The replacement power system uses two micro-turbines mounted beside the rear wheel. Each reportedly generates approximately 70 to 75 pounds of thrust, for a combined output of about 150 pounds. Because the turbines are not mechanically connected to the wheel, the motorcycle does not need a gearbox or traditional drivetrain. Opening the throttle simply increases the thrust pushing the bike forward.

The conversion required more than 400 hours of work, according to the project description. The build included fabricated turbine mounts, protective covers, and a custom fuel system. The creators also retained the Harley’s original switchgear and displays while developing electronics to operate the turbines.

Safety challenges remain

Operating turbine engines on a motorcycle introduced substantial safety concerns. A turbine can suffer a catastrophic failure and break apart while running, so each engine required a containment and scatter shield. The bike also needed a way to shut down the engines, leading the builders to install a manual fuel cutoff.

That cutoff does not stop the turbines instantly because several feet of fuel line remain between the switch and the engines. As a result, fuel already in the lines can allow the engines to continue running after the cutoff is activated. The build also experienced hardware failures before both turbines were ultimately brought online.

Street testing reaches 60 mph

With the original engine and transmission removed, the motorcycle was estimated by Kerr to weigh about 350 pounds, although that figure was not verified. During testing, he reached 60 mph, or approximately 97 km/h, and said the bike still had more performance available.

The riding experience differs sharply from that of a conventional motorcycle. There is no gear shifting, drivetrain vibration, or mechanical link between the turbines and rear wheel. Instead, the bike accelerates as the turbines build thrust and push it through the air.

By typical motorcycle standards, 60 mph is not an especially high speed. The unusual achievement is the method: this Harley reaches it without a conventional engine or drivetrain, accompanied by the sound of two turbines operating behind the rider.