Ecotransport mashup

[Grant-53]

So we are looking to change the shape to minimize the aero torque about the roll axis. There is not a lot we can do about raising the center of gravity. Focus is on reducing the lateral drag of the upper body. Drawing in the works.

[Xist]

The reason that I thought about the 213 MPG scooter thread was that he modified his bike to sit lower, therefore lower his center of gravity. I think that it was more to reduce frontal area, but that sounds like two birds with one stone.

[sendler]

Originally Posted by Grant-53

So we are looking to change the shape to minimize the aero torque about the roll axis.

Yes. Because if the bike tends to lean with the wind, it is cornering with the wind.

[sendler]

Originally Posted by Xist

modified his bike to sit lower

Sitting lower is all about reducing frontal area. A higher CG and lower side CoP help the bike automatically lean into a side wind. The lower body work should almost scrape the ground at full travel and be squared off as the race bikes are for the best aero behind the front wheel, and for the best side wind stability. No off road log hopping on a streamliner.

[nickec]

This is the lowest machine I have yet to see:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOSVHZG1wRA

Tantalizing. Homebrew frame. High CG mounted engine. Chicken wire "fairing".

[Grant-53]

[/IMG]

[Frank Lee]

^

[Grant-53]

The green lines are for a sliding window. At the bottom of the doors there needs to be a kick panel so that the feet can be put on the ground.

[sendler]

This vehicle was blown onto it's side at 50mph during the 1982 Vetter fuel economy challenge.
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Vetter's current design is about as far as you can safely go for weather protection without running into dangerous wind issues.
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If you want full enclosure, more wheels are required.
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[Sven7]

That video bike looks like it has some potential. Forgive me, but is there a reason you don't see "lowracer" style motorcycles? Would balance be too difficult? With a fairing over an extremely foot forward layout, theoretically you should get a pretty high CoD and both side area and frontal area. Just load it full of blinking LED's for visibility...?