If you saw The Dark Knight or The Dark Knight Rises, then you no doubt remember the Batpod – the fat-tired motorcycle on which Batman tore through the streets of Gotham. Well, if you're a true fan (and a rich one), you'll soon have the chance to own it for yourself. One of the main bikes that appeared in both films is heading for the auction block.
Although multiple Batpods were created for use in the movies, this one was a "hero," meaning that it was used in close-ups. It was conceived by the films' production designer Nathan Crowley, and built by special-effects supervisor Chris Corbould.
Among its features are a custom-made chassis, metallic grey-painted fiberglass body panels, 31-inch Hoosier racing tyres and a Honda 750 engine. Oh yes, and it also sports a pair of (non-functional) cannons made of plastic, resin and fibreglass on the front, along with a laser targeting unit mounted above the right handlebar grip.
The radiator and hydraulics are located behind the saddle, while the braking system is operated via controls on the left handle and the right pedal. Black foam padding placed on the body, saddle and knee rests provides a degree of comfort for the prone rider.
If you're having fantasies about riding the thing to work, however, you may be disappointed. It's being sold without a battery, fuel tank or throttle, so some work will be involved if you want to get it running again. Of course, you might instead just choose to build one of your own.
The UK-based Prop Store is handling the auction, which will be held on Sept. 27th – although people can stop by London's BFI IMAX to check out the bike and numerous other bits of movie memorabilia starting on the 14th. The Batpod is expected to sell for between £60,000 and £80,000, or about US$79,611 to $106,148.
Source: Prop Store
