Aerodynamics...airplane+motorcycle=car

[Big Dave]

One suspects these did not revolutionize the auto biz for a reason.

These are very sexy-looking and their CdA is probably exemplary but from a vehicle dynamics standpoint they scream "Deathtrap!"

The fixed outrigger wheels make this thing a nightmare to corner. Unable to bank into the turn like a motorcycle and unable to resist upturning moment at the ends it is nothing but a top-heavy bike with training wheels. It would be very vulnerable to what bikers call a "high side" where the bike rolls on an axix 45 degrees or so from the nominal roll axis.

The idea is too good to give up on. If I had one I would modifiy it to have retractable outrigger wheels. At low speeds the landing gear would make it easy to handle. Somewhere between 5 MPH and 10 MPH the out rigger wheels retract and she becomes a long motorcycle. As such, I think the rake angle will need some work. There are electric retractable landing gear available for Gold Wings.

Another refinement I see an opportunity for: These vehicles use motorcycle suspension components. These things have to weigh over a half-ton curb weight at least. That is too much for even Gold Wing suspension components.

For service in the Midwest, it will need a good heater/defroster and effective ram-air ventilation.

The ones using Gold Wing drive trains are probably wildly over-geared.

[Cd]

.192 drag coefficient is the quoted figure.
It looks so much sleeker...but the .CDxA is fantastic !
I looked at one yesterday.
I love the car.
I was surprised at how much room is in the cockpit.
The car seemed as long as my Civic, yet lower ( elbow height )
From the front end to the edge of the dash was a good four and a half feet or so.

[cfg83]

Originally Posted by Big Dave

...

Another refinement I see an opportunity for: These vehicles use motorcycle suspension components. These things have to weigh over a half-ton curb weight at least. That is too much for even Gold Wing suspension components.

...

Around 800 lbs curb weight :

1984 Litestar Brochure
http://www.autocycles.org/litestar1984.html


CarloSW2

[aerohead]

Yep,I'm droolin' bigtime! I've seen three of 'em,two in motion,one used as a billboard.Wish they'd sold hundreds of thousands,if not millions.A high standard,still by today's technology.