A "speeder" is a small, gasoline powered railroad motorcar once used by railroads to inspect the track for defects and problems. Small speeders could carry 1-3 track workers, and larger versions could carry up to 6 people and would often be seen with many small trailer carts attached to the rear filled with spikes and tools.

The top speed for most speeders is 30mph, but compared to the hand-operated pump cars that speeders replaced, they were extraordinarily fast!

Modern railroads have phased out the speeder, but rail enthusiasts around the country restore and operate these odd pieces of railroad machinery for the enjoyment of the public.