Sold on the idea of cycling on water, but the traditional cycle-boat isn’t doing it for you? Maybe you need a hydrofoil. Specifically, the Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1. More than seven years in the making, this e-bike/hydrofoil hybrid is set to take to the seas early next year.
Like other hydrofoil watercraft, the XE-1 relies on submerged wings that create lift in the water and raise the hull out of the water. This decreases drag and increases speed, which for a pedal-powered watercraft are both good things. According to Manta5, the XE-1 tops out at 13 mph, and cruises between 7-8 mph.
Manta5 claims that their ability to perform a submerged launch is a “first of its kind for any hydrofoiling watercraft.” That’s important in case you want to stop somewhere along the ride, or you lose your balance and fall off in deep water.