Rocket Hell! I Want a Faster Bicycle!

Scientists are making huge advances in titanium alloys that should see applications in space flight.

In the April 17 issue of the journal Science, Saito's team writes that their titanium-based alloys exhibit "super" properties, such as ultrahigh strength and super elasticity. The new materials could prove useful for spaceflight, where precision operations are conducted in ruthless conditions.

The alloys approach "magic" upper property limits that previous methods could not attain, the scientists say.

Alloys of myriad mixings are used in various parts on satellites, deep space probes and the shuttle fleet. The new alloys could be particularly suitable for ultralightweight springs, as one example, or other "precision instruments for use in rugged environments such as in outer space," the researchers report.

But, as I don't expect that I will ever take a space flight, I can't wait to see what they'll do for bicycles. Of course, the Lightspeed pictured above, at only 7.8 pounds, is already pretty good.