9 Red Bull cyclists become the first people in history to launch a plane with bicycles

A group of Red Bull cyclists has just attempted one of the most unique Red Bull stunts ever: launching a plane using only the power of their legs.

It sounds like something dreamed up over energy drinks and bravado, but the company made this happen.

Even though this stunt went against both physics and common sense, the cyclists were committed to making it happen.

But as you can imagine, it wasn’t exactly easy to pull it off.

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The Red Bull cyclists needed to be in perfect sync

The premise was simple, at least on paper: nine elite cyclists, riding in perfect synchronization at roughly 45 km/h (28mph), would tow a lightweight airplane fast enough for it to lift off.

The reality, however, was far more nerve-racking.

Calculations suggested it might work, but the margin for error was razor thin.

Too little speed, and the plane stays grounded.

On the other hand, too much chaos, and the danger skyrockets, with the very real risk of the aircraft surging toward the riders.

Of course, this wasn’t the first time the company has attempted something so ambitious, but it was taking things to the next level.

Before risking a pilot and plane, the Red Bull cyclists ran tests by towing an e-bike to simulate the resistance.

Even that proved challenging, demanding precise coordination and communication as each cyclist pushed between 300 and 400 watts.

The test confirmed one thing: the power was there.

Confidence grew, adrenaline spiked, and soon the riders lined up for the first real attempt.

However, the stunt almost ended right there.

During the first try, when the release mechanism cut the rope, lack whipped backward, destroying the rear rider’s bike in a heart-stopping moment.

Thankfully, no one was injured, but it was definitely risky.

The system was adjusted, nerves were reset, and the riders tried again.

The second attempt delivered a brief taste of success, with the plane lifting off for a short hop before touching back down.

The Red Bull stunt was far from over

That small lift of the aircraft wasn’t enough.

The company wanted altitude, distance, and a definitive first.

After all, the brand is all about going against all odds to do the impossible.

With a longer runway and renewed determination, the team locked in for one final run.

As the cyclists accelerated past 52 km/h (32mph), and watts climbing past 750, the impossible finally happened.

The plane lifted cleanly into the air, climbing higher and higher before the rope released.

Cheers erupted as history was made: nine cyclists, one aircraft, and a world-record.

It was both ridiculous and spectacular, and certainly one of the most unique Red Bull stunts the company has ever attempted.

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