Tuscan: A trail bike that never scorched trails

Here is an unusual motorcycle that sadly didn't make it past the prototype stage - the Tuscan motorcycle, which was commissioned by the U.S Forest Service to motor across the dense forest terrain. This motorcycle was gyroscopically balanced, which means that it's riders would never have lost balance while motoring across any kind of terrain. Very impressive for the 1950's. California's Gyro Transport systems designed the Tuscan for forest rangers, with a caterpillar drive system that could give the Tuscan a tank-like mobility and go-anywhere capability. The Tuscan featured a 20 horsepower engine which powered the rear caterpillar wheel that could push it even across 45 degree inclines. A four speed gearbox transmits power to the caterpillar drive and the motorcycle could even traverse snow trails with a front ski attachment. A detachable front headlamp, which can double up as a flashlight also made it into the Tuscan. All these cutting edge features way back in the 1950's, sadly never made it to production and the Tuscan became one more legendary bike that could have redefined motorcycle history, which it never did.

tuscan gyro 15699

Via: hellforleathermagazine