Testing times for TV’s Guy before his land speed record bid
COUNTY EXPERTS HELP FORMER RACER WITH FIRST TESTS
FORMER motorcycle racer Guy Martin has completed initial tests in the specially-designed vehicle which could break the motorcycle land speed record in Bolivia next year.
The TV presenter and author has been working with engineers from Horiba Mira, based near Hinckley, to carry out body shape and intake tests to help inform the design of the carbon fibre bodywork.
He has been trying out the steering and braking system on the 1,200shp (Shaft horsepower) “52 Express” streamliner, which he will be driving, with a target to beat of 376.363mph.
The first tests were conducted as part of a trial at the historic North Weald Airfield in Essex and included an engine run-up on stands, as well as low-speed towing of the vehicle to test its steering and stability.
Powering the bespoke bike is a Rolls-Royce Gem engine that previously powered a Lynx helicopter.
The 52 Express vehicle sports twin parachutes, tyres that can withstand speeds of up to 500mph, and Kevlar belt transfer boxes.
Now, motorsport and engineering students from North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College, which has a campus in
Hinckley, are to design and produce retractable skid plates for the vehicle. This will involve researching appropriate materials, carrying out testing and inspection, and creating prototypes using the 3D printer at the Mira Technology Institute (MTI).
Students will also explore sustainable manufacturing processes for the production of the skid plates.
Lisa Bingley, operations director for MTI, said: “We enjoyed welcoming the 52 Express team to the MTI and it was a privilege to meet Guy Martin. The news on the latest tests sounds very positive and we look forward to hearing more as the project unfolds.
“We are pleased to lend our support to the motorcycle land speed record attempt and are pleased to see the MTI logo now appearing as part of its livery and on Guy’s test suit.
“We hope the team continues to make positive progress with their preparations and wish them the best of luck.”
The MTI is helping to create specialist skills in emerging technology areas, including electrification and driverless cars. Since it first opened its doors, the MTI has welcomed over 12,000 students and delegates.
This includes more than 800 pupils studying for accredited qualifications from a Level 1 Institute of the Motor Industry certificate up to Masters’ degrees, and over 360 following apprenticeships at all levels.