A British engineer built an unusual bicycle

Engineer, inventor, and YouTuber Colin Furze built a bicycle using neodymium magnets as shock absorbers. They are located at the top and rear of the frame.

What if you replaced the shock absorbers with magnets that repel each other? British self-taught engineer Colin Furze decided to test this crazy idea.

The idea is simple: two magnets with the same poles facing each other repel each other. We attach it to a bicycle frame, create a hinge, and get suspension without springs, without oil, without wearing parts. Just the invisible force of magnetism.

First, Colin calculated the loads. He assembled a test rig, stood on it, and found that about 35 kg of force needed to be compensated. Regular magnets produced a measly 8 kg. He had to order neodymium cubes measuring 50 x 50 x 50 mm, each with a force of 208 kg.

The first prototype, made from an old bicycle, failed. The frame turned out to be too flexible—the magnets pushed it sideways instead of acting as suspension. Plus, the thin tubes simply twisted under the load.

For the second version, Colin ordered even more powerful magnets—500 kg of pulling force. They were so strong that they would rip out of his hands and stick to the workbench. He welded the frame out of stainless steel because it's non-magnetic, making such monsters easier to work with.

The result? For normal riding, it works great. The bike smoothly absorbs small bumps, the magnets are visible in the gaps in the frame, and it looks futuristic. But as soon as we hit the pump track, the frame gave way. The hinges bent.

The problem isn't with the magnets. The problem is that large gaps between frame parts require very rigid connections. Colin admits he left the gaps in to create pretty preview shots. But for real-world use, he'll have to think about reinforcing the structure.

The project is ongoing. The comments are already suggesting options - guide rods, additional rails.