BOAT BIKE

The Boat Bike concept was one of those wild hairs that crop up when you're staring down a Texas Summer that will need plenty of excuses to be in the water, and waiting for UT football to start. I had seen one before while canoeing Town Lake a few years ago- a craft made out of a modified bicycle with pontoons attached, just paddling through the water. The idea of having the thing be able to ride from land into the water was my friend Bryan's. He likes to think big, and he was enthusiastic about the idea (but unfortunately is in New York for the summer). So I thought up some plans, sold an old laptop at Rex's garage sale for $18, bought a bike on craigslist, and recruited some friends to help assemble. Flip had some leftover plywood, I have a million screws and lag bolts from previous projects, Emily brought the beverages, and Brandon & Marie had the perfect place to build (and a lot of good ideas about the construction). 8 hours of labor and a little time on the water with friends was a great way to spend the weekend. Maybe next year we'll think bigger (a boat-bike race, perhaps?). Watch the vid. Also, see the craft pass the "Blanton Test".