Quote:
Originally Posted by Burton
Didn't realize what you were working on and I didn't realize it weighs 600lbs. I have no experience with larger bikes / scooters of this size and my ninja weighs only 350+luggage and my zero is bellow factor weight right now.
We do get a lot of rain but I don't need to cover the zero. My outer shell will get wet but I stay dry. Zero Motorcycles has video of these things running through river crossings so I am not too concerned about a little rain. That stated all electrical connections get dielectric grease and I wouldn't ever be doing a river crossing  |
Fully enclosing it will not only will keep you dry, but will also get rid of most of the turbulence that will get very scary when riding over water especially since you are using a lighter bike. Craig and the rest of us in Ca don't have to design that into it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Burton
I am curious as to why you think the side winds will be reduced when the tail is sealed. Do you have any other projects or sources you can point to which gave you this idea?
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The tail moving from side to side is due to both the side winds and the turbulence created by the cabin not being sealed especially as the speed is increased. My reasoning comes from vibrations. If you vibrate an object (headwind and turbulence) then another source(side winds) vibrates it further the amplitudes will add up-multiplying the forces required to keep it still. I am testing it with every addition I make until the point of failure to figure out exactly where that is.
I test it in a canyon with 30+mph winds going up a 10-15% grade I live near by at 50-70mph. 50-55mph is the only manageable speed without getting violent shaking. Now most of our riding is on dry surfaces while yours will be partially on wet less friction surfaces, so you want as little turbulence as possible, thus fully enclosing it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Burton
I plan on making my tail as vetter states but I also plan on making another tail out of composites to get a better shape and compare the two. Vetter's tail will likely be lighter and longer, while the composite will be shorter and heavier but have the ideal shape. So far my only concern is making the luggage compartment water tight.
Do you have more pictures of your project or a blog I could look at?
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Use the same concept as roof shingle installation when putting the aluminum/composite together. Put the lower piece completely underneath the upper piece, and than put waterproof caulking in between. I will put a build thread for the cabin enclosure, and nose cone. Anyone have any ideas on what I should use for the door. Plexiglass/polycarbonate? Seal with "car door rubber"? Also does anyone know of a door knob I could hit with my knee to open. No electrics b/c I want fail-proof.