Is it a bike? Is it a boat?

7:33am Thursday 5th June 2008

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By Will Carson »

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IS it a bike? Is it a boat? Well actually it's both.

If it keeps raining then it might just be the answer to getting to the office on time.

Introducing the amphibious trike, the product of eight months of work by students from Southampton University.

The impressive pedal-powered bit of kit is the final project of seven students from the university's School of Engineering.

The students began working on the project in October - and mechanical engineering student David Edwards finally took to the water to test the cycle last month.

David, 22, said: "When the cycle hit the water it was a very proud moment. It certainly raised a smile off everyone who saw it.

"All seven of us worked so hard on the project, and it was brilliant to see everything working perfectly.

"There are other amphibious bikes on the market, but the one we have designed is unique because it uses floats, a paddle wheel and the rider sits in a recumbent position.

"Also, the transition from land to water was completely seamless which is very rare."

The amphibious trike was tested on the River Itchen next to the university's Sailing Club in front of a crowd of 35 people who were invited along by the students.

The students, from a range of subjects including ship science, construction and mechanical engineering, were set the project as part of their final years of their degrees. David said the cycle could have several uses.

He added: "The cycle could be used for humanitarian aid to carry water or food across flooded areas.

"The UK isn't immune to flooding so it could also be used closer to home.

"Holiday centres may also be interested.

"At the moment we are concentrating on our finals, but the cycle will be on show at the university's stand at the Southampton Boat Show, so who knows, it might just be a launch pad for the product."

Dr Atul Bhaskar, of the School of Engineering Sciences, Aeronautics & Astronautics, oversaw the project.

He said: "The design of the bike was very professional - I was most impressed.

"I am very proud of the students and I think there is a place for the final product in the leisure industry."