24 November 2015
The inspirational Bulldog autogyro will have its UK debut at FLYER Live this weekend. The retro styled autogyro made from high-tech materials, modern design and powered by a radial engine will be shown by BJJR, the Tatenhill-based company behind the project.
The cockpit and fuselage of the Bulldog resemble a 1930s barnstormer but without the biplane wings. Instead, there’s a two-blade rotor on top of a stylish curved arch. There are two seats, one behind the other, with leather upholstery giving a luxurious finish.
Upfront the engine is a 9-cylinder radal made by Australian company, Rotec. That too looks retro but is thoroughly modern, delivering 150hp and fuel burn of 27 litres per hour. A hydraulic system takes drive from the engine to get the rotor spinning to 300rpm before starting the takeoff roll.
The rest of the Bulldog is mostly carbon fibre with parts being made by Derbyshire firm EPM Technology which makes components for F1 cars. Inside that curved arch, there’s a straight carbon fibre spar for strength and also to provide protection for the pilot in case of rollover.
