The 1988 film Akira stands as a classic not just in Japanese animation, but in the entire post-apocalyptic film genre. As such, fans of the film have been drawn to some of its most memorable moments and visuals, particularly the futuristic motorcycle driven by one of the main characters. One fan even went so far as to devote several years to creating a working replica of the signature vehicle, which has become the only one officially recognized by Akira's creator, and which recently toured Japan to raise money for charity.
It took seven years and 10 million yen (about US$121,000) for Shinji Tejima to recreate the bike ridden by the film's protagonist, but it was probably all worth it when the creator of the Akira manga and movie, Katsuhiro Otomo, deemed it the only officially recognized replica. Tejima certainly made sure his motorcycle was as movie-accurate as possible, right down to a pill-shaped key for a hidden ignition switch and stickers matching the ones from the movie. He even went the extra step and implemented a digital dashboard and working GPS navigator.
Recently, Tejima even donned a red leather outfit matching the main character's in the movie and set out on a tour of Japan, starting at his own Showa Studio auto shop in Fukuoka. He made stops in several Japanese cities in order to raise money for the Bokura Company, a children's autism support group, with his last stop being Tokyo for a special exhibition honoring Akira's creator.
The bike is currently on display at the Katsuhiro Otomo GENGA Exhibition from now until May 30, where visitors can have their picture taken sitting on it among a post-apocalyptic backdrop. Proceeds from the exhibition will support reconstruction in the Tohoku region following last year's earthquake and tsunami in the area.
Check out the video below to see how the bike drives, turning more than a few heads as it goes.
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