Vehicles

74-Z Military Speeder Bike

A small personal transport issued to Imperial scout troopers for reconnaissance of such worlds as the forest moon of Endor. Speeder bikes can reach speeds of up to 500 kilometers per hour and are far more maneuverable than landspeeders or airspeeders. They have no armor however, and one mistake on the part of the pilot can result in a deadly crash.

Used by the Galactic Republic during the Clone Wars, the 74-Z along with the BARC speeders saw action on many worlds. The bike was first used during the Battle of Geonosis and was capable of being deployed from LAAT/i gunships. On the planet Saleucami, Jedi Master Stass Allie was killed by her own troops while riding a 74-Z bike when Order 66 was issued. It was also used by the Confederacy of Independent Systems.

The vast majority of speeder bikes, which are powered by efficient repulsorlift engines, serve as recreational vehicles and simple transports. However, as the Galactic Civil War intensified, several military models were also manufactured for use by Imperial forces. Because of their speed, maneuverability, and low cost, speeder bikes are perfect reconnaissance craft. Speeder bikes can travel easily through all types of terrain, including dense forests, at speeds up to 500 kilometers per hour. They can also rise to about twenty-five meters above the ground in order to avoid obstacles.

Military speeder bikes, such as the Aratech 74-Z used by Imperial scout troopers, are manufactured with light armor plating and a single blaster cannon. The pilot maneuvers the speeder bike through controls in the vehicle’s handgrips, while adjusting speed and altitude through the foot pedals. Sensors, the targeting system, and the firing mechanism are located directly in front of the saddle.

Other models of Imperial bikes include the Aratech 64-Y Swift-3 repulsorlift sled, refitted Ikas-Adno Starhawks, and the Mobquet TrailMaker III.

Back to Repulsorcraft