bugbite race boat

The Bugbite

1935 A.A.Apel: The Original Bugbite

Established in 1935, A.A. Apel has been a pioneering force in the world of innovative solutions. With a rich history spanning almost a century, the company has consistently excelled in crafting top-tier products that blend traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has propelled them to the forefront of their industry. Today, A.A. Apel continues to uphold its legacy of excellence, presenting a wide array of offerings that seamlessly merge heritage with modernity, setting new benchmarks for performance and reliability.

The Bugbite is Considered a Modern Classic Race Boat.

bugbite race boat

The Bugbite is completely hand-built using innovative technologies for cold molding, adhesives, two-part urethane varnishes, and two-part urethane paints and primers. The Bugbite is a single-step race boat and it was built to the design of the 1935 A.A.Apel.

bugbite

The race boat is made from hand-picked Lloyds Registered marine grade mahogany. The frame components and planking are made from first-class white oak. The structural fasteners consist of bronze, silicone, and chrome-plated brass.

Kevin Fitze handles all of the painting, varnishing, gold leafing, all woodwork, engine rebuilding, and more. All hardware installed is either original from the 1930s period or inspired by the 30s time period.

bugbite

The Bugbite is powered by a rebuilt GM 283 cubic inch flywheel forward engine. The race boat is also equipped with a Borg Warner hydraulic manual transmission that produces about 190 horsepower.

The name “Bugbite” comes from the saying “Once you’re bit by the boat bug you’re hooked.” The racing letter “F” represents the pre-war 225c.i. race class and the number “36” was Kevin Fitzke’s age at the time of the boat’s completion.

LENGTH: 17’ BEAM: 5’

TOTAL WEIGHT: APPROX. 1400LBS

MOTOR: GM283 190HP

If you are interested in the Bugbite, contact us for more information!

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We are here to answer any questions, for more info, please visit our contact page at Contact Us | ToysForBigBoys.com to reach us via email or call us at 1-855-533-8697, thank you and have a great day.