Hey guys! I've been thinking lately that I really, REALLY need to do something about my fuel costs. My current stable consists of a 26 mpg Mustang GT and a 30 mpg Ural sidecar rig. I commute about 60 miles every day, and have a choice of routes (80% rural, 20% town or 10% rural 90% freeway). Either way, my vehicles are eating me out of house and home, almost literally... fuel is my second largest monthly expense!
I'm on the reservation list for one of the new Elio trikes, which I'll have to sell the Ural to afford. That said, Elio Motors still has over a year to go belly up (or increase the price), and honestly, it's bigger than I need it to be. I'm wondering if I could sell that sidecar and fab up something better suited to my needs. Sure, the airbags and A/C would be nice, but as a motorcyclist, I'm used to a little extra risk and discomfort.
So, I'm racking my brain trying to come up with some good build ideas. My requirements are: fuel efficient (50+ mpg), protection from the elements (roof, sides?), and a minimum 55 mph cruising speed. I really only need a single seat and enough storage for a gym bag, so a single track would be perfect.
Where do I go from here? Enclosing a motorcycle would probably be easiest, but stability against crosswinds concerns me. I'd kinda' prefer something with a lower profile. I don't weld yet, but learning is on my to-do list. If I build a custom frame, what would be the best layout for a reverse trike? A motorcycle engine up front driving the front wheels? A motorcycle engine in the back driving the rear wheel? Maybe a small car (Metro, Aspire, etc) front end with all the steering, suspension, and drivetrain already in place?
Too many options, and not enough experience!
I'd love to get some feedback from those that have already tackled such a thing.
Thanks!
~SM