Bill Wildt's Warbike

The WARbike (Wildt's Astro Racer bike), is a testament to Bill Wildt's audacious vision to reignite public interest in racing. Designed with the goal of pushing the boundaries of motorcycle performance and captivating the public imagination, this bike features an extraordinary setup that includes two Turbonique T-32 rocket thrust engines. Each engine generates 3,320 horsepower, culminating in a combined total of 6,640 horsepower.

This motorcycle was engineered not just for speed but for spectacle. Wildt, who devoted much of his life to promoting motorsports through his show Motorsports Unlimited, saw the WARbike as both a groundbreaking machine and a vehicle for his Motorsport Advancement Crusade. With an estimated quarter-mile time of under 5 seconds and a top speed projected at 275 mph, the WARbike was designed to challenge records and showcase the thrilling possibilities of racing technology.

Building the WARbike involved overcoming significant engineering challenges. Instead of a traditional driveline, Wildt focused on harnessing the raw thrust from the Turbonique engines. The frame was constructed from 4130 chromoly tubing and reinforced with gusseting to ensure it could handle the immense forces generated. Wildt also incorporated advanced braking systems, including Lockheed magnesium calipers and custom spoke wheels, to manage the extreme speeds and forces involved.

A notable innovation was the parachute system designed to aid in braking. Wildt devised a custom loop for the parachute to deploy from the rear axle center line, a solution aimed at stabilizing the bike under high-speed deceleration. This system included dual parachute control handles, allowing for both deployment and release if necessary.

Despite its impressive specifications and innovative features, the WARbike never raced on a track. Wildt used it primarily as a showpiece, demonstrating it as part of his crusade to raise awareness and support for motorsports. The bike was displayed on a turntable and transported in a trailer, embodying Wildt's mission to save motorsports from decline.

With its blend of explosive power and pioneering design, this bike remains a remarkable piece of racing history, reflecting Wildt's passion and determination to push the limits of what’s possible in the world of motorsports.

Here is a video created by Bill Wildt that details his process of developing the bike: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gM7wtxuJ25M&t=836s