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Old 11-09-2014, 11:48 PM   #53 (permalink)
Grant-53
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Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Elmira, NY
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The back angle is the main factor in overall height. In my car I go for 25-30 degree tilt back. On my bike I tip forward 35-45 degrees. For my scooter I am adding aero bars and will get 25 degrees forward tilt comfortably. Since the scooters have their CG lower and farther back than a standard motorcycle it is important to have adequate tail. I plan for a longer shell both front and rear than your current drawing. I want more crush zone and smoother airflow. The cross wind issue cannot be underestimated. See the fairing on Vic Valdez's bike. However if the cross section has curved sides with the top having a larger radius than the bottom, a fairly stable shape can be had. I have seen designs for a three joint folding convertible hard top. Sliding windows are simple enough. Windshield wiping and defogging the windows is a bit more challenging.
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