Introduction:
The Pedabout (derived from
"Pedal about") is a
one-of-a-kind, human powered, mahogany speedboat. It is operated
by means of a bicycle-like chain-and-gear power train ... and ... was made for
his son by a home hobbyist, who was a carpenter-cabinet maker by
trade. It speeds along at two to four knots in an elegant and
enjoyable manner, allowing the crew to enjoy a facing-forward water
cruise while getting some good exercise. The Pedabout works fine
in reverse gear (just peddle backwards) and is quite an eye-catching
craft, wherever it goes.
The boat is quite light and will carry one or two people in
style and comfort. The hull and the peddling gear are all custom designed
and fabricated. It all used to work but has now fallen into disrepair.
If I were keeping it, I would seriously consider converting it to operate on battery power
... but ... the human powered aspect of the current rig is very hard to
let go of. So is the boat itself ... I wish I were keeping it.
Click on a thumbnail to
enlarge the photos.
Hull Overviews:
Interior Details:
Pedaling Mechanism:
Deck Details: