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Old 03-15-2013, 03:46 PM   #24 (permalink)
Smurf
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Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: LaX
Posts: 293

Dime - '95 Chevy S10 LS ExtCab RWD
Pickups
90 day: 18.23 mpg (US)

G/A - '96 Pontiac Grand Am
Team Pontiac
90 day: 32.74 mpg (US)
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Thanks Freebeard. I also like the 11'8" one, based on a small Kawasaki 250cc. It would have belt high bodywork over the rear end, real clean and light weight, maybe storage for a backpack. Pure city commuter.

The entry and exit is a very valid point, and in my head I can envision a crossbar that pivots out from the dash corner, and locks in near the left shoulder. With some additional side impact support, I'd probably trust the locking crossbar in most situations. It's a fine balance between simplicity, ease of use, looks, and safety. But I try to remind myself it'll be much safer than the 2 wheel donor, as I'm not a motorcyclist in any sense.

I haven't designed much lately, but my mind is moving towards the VW XL1 as far as shape. Enclosed front wheels, a small one person cage inside surrounded by a wider-than-canopy body, tapering back to take advantage of the single rear wheel. Generally, I design with a solid interior cage, and an almost 'break-away' front and rear end, sort of like open wheel racers. The cycle and front end can be replaced after a crash, I cannot.
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