Inspiration Behind the SuperFarthing
The moment motorcycles were invented marked a pivotal shift, drawing from the rich history of bicycles.
Unlike some of their two-wheeled predecessors, motorcycles quickly made their mark by avoiding common pitfalls.
Yet, there’s one whimsical creation that has eluded us: a motorcycle that takes after the penny farthing.
This oversight sparked creativity in YouTube tinkerer Gregulations, who set out on an ambitious quest.
The Engineering Journey
Greg’s dream was bold—to design the swiftest penny farthing imaginable, using parts from a superbike.
The journey was marked not only by imaginative engineering but also by a willingness to invest in the right fabrication resources necessary to make the dream a reality.
The end result? A remarkable reimagining of the Yamaha R6, featuring a gigantic steel front wheel alongside a notable steel swingarm, transforming an ordinary ride into an amusingly challenging experience.
The SuperFarthing took shape amid a series of unexpected engineering hurdles.
After the initial component assembly, it became evident that many parts needed either a redesign or complete removal to make way for crucial features absent from the first iteration, such as the brake calipers.
One of the most striking adjustments involved rethinking the rear suspension.
Greg learned that the extended swingarm created enough force during acceleration to compress the shock, leading to a unique handling characteristic.
Pioneering Innovations
What sets the SuperFarthing apart is its remarkable degree of anti-squat.
Most motorcycles don’t experience this level of force; yet, the SuperFarthing’s enormous 65-inch front wheel introduced yet another challenge: steering.
To tackle this, Greg included what might just be the first hydraulic power steering system ever used on a motorcycle.
Originally devised to lift training wheels as speed increased, this innovative addition showcased just how adaptable engineering concepts can be, even while introducing new challenges of its own.
While the SuperFarthing perhaps strays from the traditional definition of a penny farthing—with its extra wheels and absence of pedaling power—it’s undeniably a captivating symbol of creativity and playful ingenuity.
Personally, I’ll always cherish the thrill of more conventional rides.
Nevertheless, the existence of the SuperFarthing fills me with joy and admiration.
It’s a delightful leap into the realm of the unexpected!