Model 317

[AviationMetalSmith]

I build Human Powered Vehicles. But I only ride "Upright" bikes (that tiny portion of the bike market that is NOT "Recumbent").

I started out with the intent of installing Electric Moped Accessories on my Bicycle. But that proved impossible , as the Electric Moped hadn't been invented yet. So, since I was an Engineering Student, and I figured if worse comes to worse, I can submit my project for extra credit, I went ahead and started building Prototypes.

Now, today, 30 years later, one of these Prototypes, the Type 3 , has gone into limited production. It is called MODEL 317, and here are a few photos...

I want to ask if in your own opinion(s), does this look like it sort of approximates a classic "Tear Drop" shape, viewed from above ?

Model 317 by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr

Model 317 by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr

Model 317 by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr

Model 317 by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr

Photos. More to follow...

[AviationMetalSmith]

More Photos of MODEL 317 :

Model_317_Brand_X_Print_Ad_110542c by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr

It was discovered that those soft rubbery "Pool Noodles" can be used to support a canopy, to protect the rider from rain and sun. The Pool Noodles can flex to allow the handlebars to turn. The other bikes have Cargo Platforms securely attached to the Head Tube, so the roll-cage could have been steel or aluminum if we went that route.

I built this for my competitor , BRAND X .

This bike is too cheap to put my own name on. But I wanted the bargain hunters to shut up. So I built it anyway. Only one unit has been built so far, and no one has asked how much money I want for it . But I would say "Under $500.00" if they do ask.

Model_317_Brand_X_Print_Ad_110534bb by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr

Model_317_Brand_X_Print_Ad_110531c by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr

Model_317_Brand_X_Print_Ad_110523b by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr

IMG_1417 by AviationMetalSmith, on Flickr
Lighting is 12 volt, LED.

[aerohead]

Yes it does.However,for it to perform,you'd have to fully-enclose the body gap between the nose and tail.And you'd want to extend the bottom at least even with the bottom of your feet when pedaling.
Also,any square edges are a no-no.They cause flow separation and attached vortices,which have high drag.
You've captured the essence of a streamlined form.It just needs refinement.

[freebeard]

[Frank Lee]

needs moar style points

[AviationMetalSmith]

Originally Posted by aerohead

Yes it does.However,for it to perform,you'd have to fully-enclose the body gap between the nose and tail.And you'd want to extend the bottom at least even with the bottom of your feet when pedaling.
Also,any square edges are a no-no.They cause flow separation and attached vortices,which have high drag.
You've captured the essence of a streamlined form.It just needs refinement.

Yes, well thank you. But I know I have made a few compromises in the design (and construction) of he Model 317. Right now, it's on standby so I can get a good cardio workout in the event of rain. That's what the canopy is set up for.
Actual *performance*, like demonstrating aerodynamics to students, would probably need a Spandex body sock, a larger Chain Ring , and if the rider can crouch (I can't anymore) we could chop-and-lower the front fairing...

The area around to handlebars needs to be faired-in , but I don't want to shorten the handlebars right-yet.

The Model 317 came in under-budget, and I plan to keep it that way. I will keep this as the "economy model" , and work on my other bikes.

If I do add anything, it will be a sort of fin under the tail box, enclosing the rear wheel.