Chris Gordon is a New Zealand motorcycle enthusiast and electrical engineer who builds some unique machines under the CGR (Chris Gordon Racing) banner. Interestingly, he doesn’t ride the motorcycles himself; he builds them purely for the engineering challenge. On a recent visit to his garage, something caught my eye: a skateboard with a V8 engine!
Chris’ inspiration came from the Kustom Kulture movement in America in the 1960s. Back in Christchurch, New Zealand, he collected cards and stickers from BK Taylor’s Odd Rods Monster in Cars collection, influenced by legendary custom biker Ed “Big Daddy” Roth. These early influences planted the seeds of his creative endeavours, combining technical skills with artistic vision. Chris decided to recreate his childhood memories using leftover parts from his motorcycle projects.
For the V8 engine housing, he used parts from a 500cc V8 racing engine, including Kawasaki ZXR250 components. However, this is just the outer shell that houses the two electric motors. The motors and components are cleverly hidden to maintain the illusion of a supercharged V8.
The process of designing a skateboard requires meticulous planning and improvisation. Chris’ garage is a treasure trove of parts and components from previous projects, providing a rich resource for his builds. The V8 Skateboard is no exception, showcasing his ability to reuse and innovate.
The first motor, taken from a discarded 24-volt drill, powers the supercharger. The setup includes a 60-tooth pulley and toothed belt, mimicking the crankshaft drive system of a real supercharger. The supercharger housing, made from plywood and fiberglass, houses the controls for the electric motor, maintaining the illusion of a working V8. Chris’s attention to detail extends to the paint and texture, which mimic the look of metal castings.
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The second motor is from an 18-volt chainsaw and drives the skateboard. Mounted vertically inside the motor housing, it connects to a custom gearbox and gear system. The gearbox output shaft is mated to the ZXR250 gearbox shaft, connected by a bearing guide. This ingenious setup ensures a seamless connection, allowing the motor to effectively drive the skateboard.
The rear axle assembly features a ZXR250 gear and HD520 motorcycle chain, providing powerful power transmission. The 13×6.5-inch tires, mounted on alloy go-kart rims, provide excellent traction and stability. To facilitate steering, Chris has incorporated one-way bearings into the wheel hubs, allowing differential speeds between the wheels. This innovative solution ensures smooth handling and quick response, even at high speeds.
The deck, made from 4mm aluminium alloy, serves as the structural foundation and houses the power supply. Four 12-volt sealed lead-acid batteries are mounted underneath the deck, secured with support pins and a cover. The front of the deck is folded into a semi-circle, reminiscent of mid-1960s skateboard designs. This nod to vintage aesthetics adds to the overall charm of the build.
The front drive system uses a 12-inch cast aluminum skateboard with long skateboard wheels. This setup provides the precise control and stability needed to navigate a variety of terrains. The rear drive system, custom-made by Chris, complements the front setup and ensures balanced handling. The rear suspension design of the skateboard keeps the overall height of the motor and deck to a minimum, maintaining the sleek shape of the Odd Rod-inspired skateboard.
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Chris’s commitment to authenticity extends to the fuel system. The deck is designed to mimic a fuel tank, with two “fuel” lines emerging from the rear. One carries power from the battery to the supercharger, while the other is purely decorative, mimicking a throttle return line.
The ignition system is another example of Chris’s creativity. He modified the distributor cap from a VW Beetle to create a fake 8-cylinder setup, which he mounted to the engine case. This “Magneto” mimics the look of a Mallory Super Mag 2, complete with wooden components and yellow spark plug wires. The resemblance to a real ignition system really adds to the overall authenticity of the build.
Sound plays a big part in completing the illusion. Chris integrated a sound card into the skateboard, creating a realistic V8 engine soundtrack. Speakers, hidden inside the engine cylinders, amplify the sound, making it seem like the noise is coming from the exhaust. This audio element adds a dynamic dimension to the experience.
Chris’ custom building journey is deeply rooted in his background. His six years with the “Top Eliminator” drag racing team in the late 1970s provided him with invaluable experience and inspiration. This period honed his skills and fueled his passion for mechanical innovation. The V8 Skateboard is the culmination of his life’s work, combining his engineering expertise with his love of Kustom Kulture.
The future of the V8 skateboard includes some interesting features. Chris plans to finish the skateboard with a lightweight design reminiscent of skateboards from the 1960s. He also envisions an exaggerated gear shifter that comes from inside the motor, topped with a Halloween skull. Lowering the skull’s jaw will activate the first motor, starting the engine, while moving the skull forward will control the second motor for acceleration.
Chris’ dedication to his craft and ability to transform childhood memories into tangible creations is truly inspiring. The V8 Skateboard is a testament to his craftsmanship and passion for custom builds. It is a unique blend of art and engineering that captures the essence of Kustom Kulture while pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Chris’ work reminds us that with creativity and determination, even the wildest dreams can become a reality.
