Insane MPG vehicle idea

[HeadlessNorseman]

i actually didnt know that. but then i have to work out and build a front steering/suspension/axle design where its already well sorted out on a factory bicycle. plus i dont want to buy another 300$ carbon wheel Ill see where it goes. I think im just going to build a cut down motorized bike first and add the body work later on and see how it is with cross winds. Once i find a good source of steel tubing i think i might start working out a front steering assembly too! i could always use cheaper wheels for that

drawn roughly to scale according to my limbs, torso, and wheels. obviously missing a few key frame pieces

[dleefoto]

I understand money is sort (coming from an environmental engineering student) but I know for a fact that Stihl has come out with new 4 valve weedwacker engines that are super fuel efficient. Being as it is a weedwacker I never have crunched the mileage numbers haha but w/ 1.9hp it'd make you rig boogie! love the idea.

Standard Engine Features of STIHL Landscaping Power Tools - STIHL USA

[Bicycle Bob]

That's four ports, not four valves. Still a stinky two-stroke that makes more pollution than a car.

[OldGuy]

Hi Bob:
For a nice clean small (25 cc) four-stroke engine take a look at the Lehr as described at LEHR - Environmentally Friendly Technology

and also at Go-Ped® - GSR Pro-Ped

The canisters can be re-filled as described on the web.

[Bicycle Bob]

Interesting. Still, I think that for a vehicle, I'd prefer the sound and longevity of a detuned 100cc.

[HeadlessNorseman]

Originally Posted by Bicycle Bob

Interesting. Still, I think that for a vehicle, I'd prefer the sound and longevity of a detuned 100cc.

i know spookytooth engine kits can run for 2000+ miles without needing a rebuild, and i believe thats a 66cc, and still get 100mpg. Would a 2 stroke in perfect state of tune really be that bad? the motor will probably only operate within 1000 rpms at all times, so i could tune the carb and work on pressure wave tuning through a pipe for very specific rpms. I found small 2 strokes for sale for as little as 10 bucks, but also found a honda 4 stroke for 160, not prohibitive cost wise at all. I had 2 of those 30cc 4 stroke motors laying around in the past

[HeadlessNorseman]

As a post-thought, i also wanted to keep the upright bike style riding position, even if scrunched up. Im a die hard mountain biker and i know the benefit to control of being able to shift your body around, and bail off the bike easily if i have to. Just a thought

[Bicycle Bob]

200,000 miles without a rebuild is a more reasonable goal, these days. Simple 2-strokes spew pollution like crazy.

[skyl4rk]

How about a $100 Harbor Freight Greyhound 79cc four stroke, with a $50 go cart type centrifugal clutch, and a chain / jackshaft system with about a 12:1 reduction.

[NeilBlanchard]

Personally, I'd do a tadpole trike with a small lithium pack; like a single seat reverse TWIKE. Much less heat and noise, and no fumes -- and far better efficiency.