Flying Bike

The 1955 New York flying bike, often referred to as the Hoffman Flying Bike, was a prototype designed during the post-war aviation boom by Charles H. Zimmerman, an aeronautical engineer known for his work on experimental aircraft.

Developed as part of a series of personal flying machines, the bike was powered by a small piston engine driving ducted fans mounted around the frame, aiming to achieve vertical takeoff and controlled flight.

Though it captured public imagination and media attention, the bike never advanced past early test stages due to stability issues, limited lift, and safety concerns, remaining a fascinating example of mid-century aeronautical ambition rather than a functional vehicle.