The Wheelman Landsurfer

Although this device is hardly up there with the likes of other modes of personal transportation previously featured on Thoughts from the Sidelines, such as the remarkable CarterCopter or the tracked, all terrain motorbike concept, it certainly appears to be a rather novel of getting from A to B.

Powered by a 43cc 2-stroke engine, the Australian Wheelman - which is also known, somewhat unflatteringly as the Bushpig - is a curious device that brings together elements of surfing and skating in a compact and stylish mode of transportation that can power its user along on all manner of terrains at a reasonable, if not breathtaking, nineteen miles per hour.

And, as you can see the video below, it certainly looks like it’s a great deal of fun.

Developed to be ridden in a sideways stance, much as you would ride a surfboard, the Wheelman features two ten inch hub-less wheels which allow the rider to place their feet in the center axis of each. As a result, the rider is afforded not only a great deal of stability but also a solid basis for controlling the device via the unit’s twisting frame.

The accelerator is as novel as the unit itself in that it is a hand held device consisting of a pneumatic ball that can be squeezed for greater speed whilst braking is achieved by angling your feet to bring the disc brakes into action.

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You can watch the Wheelman being put through its paces in the video above (click the image to stream, or the provided link to download).

Wheelman/Bushpig Specifications:

• 43cc 2-CYCLE ENGINE
  
• Model Type: TG43 / TLE43
  
• Starting System: Recoil starter
  
• Ignition System: CDI Advanced Timing
  
• Dimensions: Length 1.1m x Height 50cm x Width 39cm
  
• Weight: 24 kg
  
• Carrying Capacity: 120 kg

The Wheelman is available for £360.00 ($680 USD) and you can gain more information concerning this device via this site.