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Old 03-21-2014, 06:42 PM   #79 (permalink)
Teri_TX
EcoModding Lurker
 
Join Date: Feb 2014
Location: Central Tx USA
Posts: 48
Thanks: 4
Thanked 5 Times in 4 Posts
Hi Pete,

BRAVO!

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ironside View Post
I didn't think I'd be posting again so soon, it was another blustery day today with avg. wind speed of 22 mph gusting to 35, similar to my last test run, but with squally shower of rain and hail. A chance too good to miss for a direct comparison.
I took a piece of 7mm rope and taped it down the centre line of the fairing, and went out for a run.





I honestly didn't think such a small change would have such a dramatic effect.
Yes the bike still moved around, but not nearly as much as previously, at no time was I even a little concerned.
In an attempt to quantify the result, I'd say that the bike was affected only by gusts strong enough that I could feel on my body, this was not the case before. I might even go so far as to say that it was not a lot different from riding a 'naked' machine.
Further experiments are planned before a permanent strip is installed (would bigger be better?). Based on today's results but I'd be quite happy to call this fixed.
My camera battery is flat and I can't find the charger , so there will be a delay before posting the tuft testing video.
By the way, apart from my shoulders, the fairing kept me warm and dry.
Other than Theo's report on his velomobile, you're the FIRST Ecomodder to test and report on a stall strip like device on a dust bin type fairing. I wish I could give you something more than a thanks on your post!

A few more tests on maybe a bigger rope or similar might give you an indication if bigger is better

However, I'd still be cautious about taking on big lorries (18 wheel trucks for Americans) without more testing.

Regards,
Teri
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