The world's first 'mainstream' flying motorcycle?

A company called Samson Motorworks is busy developing what it hopes will be the world's first mainstream flying motorcycle.

Ignoring the reality that you'd need a pilot's license, suitable runway and possibly air traffic control to ensure you don't collide with other aircraft, such as automated luxury zeppelins, the idea is solid.

Samson Motorworks' is planning two new multi mode vehicles, or MMVs: the Skybike and the Switchblade, which use telescoping wing and scissor wing designs respectively.

The idea is that you cruise down the freeway in enclosed comfort, but rather than becoming stuck in traffic or having to employ road-rage tactics to get ease your frustration, you simply take to the skies and leave your troubles behind.

The Switchblade and Skybike's creators reckon the vehicle will be able to reach an altitude of around 10,000 feet (3km), but you won't need to panic if you run out of fuel mid-flight as the canard design (main wings located towards the rear of the fuselage) means that stalling won't usually happen so you can gracefully glide into a landing. Unless you're over the ocean: then you're screwed.

The Switchblade's power comes from a 120hp twin-rotor engine that has a top groundspeed of 145km/h and airspeed of 215km/h. The engine is claimed to meet current emissions standards and uses regular unleaded petrol to fill its 60lt tank. Riding distance is claimed at around 1400km and 550km when airborne.

The Skybike is a bit slower and has slightly less range, but appears to be the fancy-pants model, with leather seats for two people and an electronic instrument panel that automatically changes from land to air readouts.

Safety equipment includes a side impact door protection and a front impact shock absorber for terra firma pursuits, and a ballistic parachute recovery system for mid-air crises.

Features of the Skybike and Switchblade include CD/MP3 stereos, a video rear view monitor, a heating and air conditioning system and ground and air lighting systems.

A glass cockpit is standard (cellophane was ditched at the last minute), as are disc brakes all round, redundant ignition and battery systems, plus an emergency location transmitter, Navigation radio and altimeter. If the project gets off the ground, options will include an autopilot and heated windshield.

Samson Motorworks reckons the vehicles will be ready in early 2010, but no price has been given (read: if you have to ask to you can't afford it).

If you're not a pilot you'll still be able to buy an MMV, but the flight controls and wing lock will require a physical and electronic key that is granted only once proof of appropriate pilot license is shown. A better option for those without a pilot's license might be the factory-built, ground-only AeroBike.