The Owosso Pulse was a futuristic vehicle that combined features of a motorcycle and a small car. Created in Michigan during the 1980s, this unique autocycle stood out with its sci-fi-inspired design. Although it was only produced for a few years, it remains a fascinating piece of automotive history and a collector’s favorite today.
In this article, we’ll discover what made the Owosso Pulse special, its standout features, and why it continues to captivate enthusiasts of retro-futuristic vehicles.
What is the Owosso Pulse?
The Owosso Pulse, often called an autocycle, was a compact, futuristic vehicle made by the Owosso Motor Car Company. Its design blended the sleekness of a motorcycle with the enclosed safety of a small car. It featured a cockpit-style seating area for two passengers, resembling an airplane.
This innovative autocycle was built to appeal to people who wanted a fuel-efficient, sporty vehicle with a bold, futuristic vibe.
Key Features of the Owosso Pulse
- Unique Design: The Pulse looked like a mix between a car and a plane. It had a sleek, aerodynamic shape and a cockpit-style interior that stood out in any crowd.
- Special Wheels: It balanced on two large wheels in the front and back, with smaller “outrigger” wheels on each side for added stability.
- Fuel Efficiency: Thanks to its lightweight construction, the Pulse used less fuel than regular cars, making it ideal for the fuel-conscious 1980s.
- Motorcycle Handling: Despite looking like a car, the Pulse was legally classified as a motorcycle, requiring a motorcycle license to drive.
- Limited Production: Only about 360 units were ever made, making the Owosso Pulse a rare and prized collector’s item.
Why Was the Owosso Pulse Popular?
The Pulse caught the attention of car lovers, sci-fi enthusiasts, and eco-friendly drivers with its futuristic design and innovative features. It offered the thrill of a motorcycle while providing more safety and protection from the weather.
Although it didn’t achieve large-scale production, its rarity and unique appearance have given it lasting appeal among fans of retro vehicles.
Legacy of the Owosso Pulse
While the Owosso Pulse wasn’t a huge commercial success, it has gained fame as a collector’s treasure. Its bold design, rarity, and retro-futuristic charm make it a beloved piece of 1980s automotive history.
Owning a Pulse means owning a slice of Michigan’s creative industrial past. Its quirky design and eco-friendly features continue to captivate fans and collectors worldwide.
FAQs
- What is the Owosso Pulse?
It’s a rare autocycle from the 1980s, combining motorcycle and car features. - Why does it look like an airplane?
The Pulse’s designers wanted a futuristic, cockpit-style appearance inspired by airplanes. - How many Owosso Pulse vehicles were made?
Only about 360 units were produced, making it a rare collector’s item. - Do you need a motorcycle license to drive it?
Yes, since it’s classified as a motorcycle, a motorcycle license is required. - Is the Owosso Pulse fuel-efficient?
Absolutely! Its lightweight and aerodynamic build made it very fuel-efficient.
