Just when you think the studios are finally getting comic based movies somewhat right, comes this image of the Bat-cycle from the upcoming Chris Nolan Dark Knight movie.
According to the article over at the LA Times, this bike (dubbed the Batpod) is tricked out with grappling hooks, cannons, machine guns, and more tread than a 4×4.
The front and rear tires are both a monstrously huge 508 millimeters, and the engines are in the hubs of each wheel. Steering isn’t by hand but by shoulder, since there aren’t handlebars. Instead, there are shields that fit each arm like sleeves and have the ability to rotate around the bike’s frame. The two foot pegs are set 3 1/2 feet apart on either side of the tank, which the rider lies on, belly down.
Because of all the stunts and for backup purposes, six of the Batpods were created for the film. Don’t expect Christian Bale to drive the bike around, the thing is such an unusual design that only a stunt drive can handle it.
Take the jump for another view that really shows the detail, but is a bit small in size.
2 Comments
Hahahaha! I love the mean look Batman’s vehicles have in the Begins series. It’s way better than the cheesey look of the comic book vehicles and the ridiculous sports car look of the Burton/Schumacher era vehicles.
If I saw Batman roaring down the streets of Gotham in that thing I’d probably need a change of underpants.
The first movie established the Batmobile as the ‘Do Anything, Go anywhere’ vehicle.
So… what’s with the Bat-cycle? The answer is in the name. Bat-Pod. It’s a marketing gimmick, and I’m sure they’ll sell a lot of toys. And what better name than Bat-Pod? It’s hip, like the iPod.
Gah. Hopefully it’s a single aberration in an otherwise good film.
–Anthony