tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4679825869425012102024-02-06T20:03:07.538-08:00unorthodox recumbent bicyclesUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-30041090805680622272012-08-12T08:50:00.001-07:002012-08-12T08:50:14.592-07:00<a href="http://www.csmonitor.com/Innovation/Tech/2011/1101/The-Prius-of-bicycles-switches-gears-by-reading-your-mind">http://www.csmonitor.com/Innovation/Tech/2011/1101/The-Prius-of-bicycles-switches-gears-by-reading-your-mind</a>
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This snug but comfortable helmet has a secret power. It reads minds.</div>
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Its array of neurotransmitters sends signals to a smart phone attached to the bicycle's handlebars, which then connects to the gear system. With a little training, a cyclist can change gears with a thought. One kind of brain wave commands the bike to downshift; another causes it to shift up.</div>
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D- not sure how I feel about a wireless link. It can be jammed or hacked.</div>
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But some sort of gloved-hand induction scheme could be robust.</div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-5321683968693725372012-03-05T05:25:00.000-08:002012-03-05T05:26:44.102-08:00ergonomic optimal bike patenthttp://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2012-03/sicp-ano022912.php<br /><br />The group then established a design process based on their theoretical work as follows. First, the lengths of the thigh and lower leg of the rider are measured. Second, the contours of GTI and GSI are drawn using the lengths of the thigh and lower leg. Third, the optimum region is found according to the requirements of GTI and GSI, as shown in Figure 3. Finally, the design is taken from the optimum region and is verified.<br /><br />After many years' research on the optimum design of a bicycle, scholars have established applicable empirical formulas. This research project explored a new way to optimize the design of bicycle parameters. The innovation of this work is the provision of a calculation method having a mechanical perspective. In this project, the structure of the human body (thigh and lower leg) and the crank length and seat height of the bicycle were mechanized. A double-crank-and-rocker mechanism was thus obtained as the bicycle–rider mechanism. <span style="font-weight:bold;">From a mechanism perspective, a method to optimize the design of the crank and seat height of a bicycle according to different lengths of a person's thigh and lower leg was proposed. In this manner, a "customized bicycle" is realized.</span> The result of the paper is useful for matching bicycles to athletes, bicycle manufacturing, and the design of cycling robots. This project was supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grants 51075222 and 51135008) and a grant from Tsinghua University Student Research Training.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-12079741877776215212012-02-25T09:47:00.002-08:002012-02-25T09:49:54.400-08:00Wireless brakes. Not a fan.http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/02/120224110559.htm<br /><br />Therefore, the Saarland computer scientist's mathematical methods should now verify the correct function and interaction of the components automatically. "The wireless bicycle brake gives us the necessary playground to optimize these methods for operation in much more complex systems," Hermanns adds. Therefore, his research group examines the brake prototype with algorithms that normally are used in control systems for aircraft or chemical factories. As a result, they found out that the brake works with 99.9999999999997 percent reliability. "This implies that out of a trillion braking attempts, we have three failures," Hermanns explains and concludes: "That is not perfect, but acceptable."<br /><br />------------<br /><br />D - there are also wireless bicycle brake-and-signal lights.<br />I'm not a fan. Here's why.<br />HACKERS.<br />Wireless means wireless hacking. I've picked up a 2600 mag in my time. Only that magnetic near-field tech that is being developed for secure financial transactions is tolerable.<br /><br />Wireless brakes on a bike sounds like a good way to get killed.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-75581479092949605772012-02-19T04:39:00.000-08:002012-02-19T04:50:48.504-08:00lee valley belt instead of chain?<a href="http://www.freelights.co.uk/bicycle.lights.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 510px; height: 387px;" src="http://www.freelights.co.uk/bicycle.lights.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.leevalley.com/us/images/item/woodworking/powertool/03j8501s1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 245px; height: 295px;" src="http://www.leevalley.com/us/images/item/woodworking/powertool/03j8501s1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=30051&cat=1%2C240%2C41067<br /><br />D: I'm not sure about if this would require an intermediately placed cog mid chainline (belt) to avoid slippage. Not sure how strong it is, though presumably it is fine.<br /><br />Seems to me that this would play well with the FB Greenmachine's intermediate frame-enclosed gear hub and suspension point.<br />I'll keep it in mind for future projects.<br /><br />----------<br /><br />Aside - Freelight-based generator.<br />I found those N48 magnets to use in 1/4x/14" rod form form 3 per dollar.<br />I figure I use some machine guard plastic I have. Cut 2 discs out of it, glue together for a thickness of about 1cm or so. Drill out so it fits snugly on a pedal crank. I don't it flopping around. Only 1 of those discs needs to be full size.<br />I drill out 1/4" dia. pockets along the outside rim edge. Ensure equal depth. Seat those magnets with a touch of glue (or just press fit) along edge. I think I'll need about 20 of them. The disc diameter is largely determined by plans to mount the magnet dynamo on the bike frame. I suspect inside the triangle of a diamond frame is best. <br />The power conditioning equipment is beyond my limited skills, though. I'll need to ask more technically inclined peeps.<br />I suspect pulse trickle charging a battery, and powering everything off the battery will be easiest.<br />The circuit can be made to draw power in between recharging pulses.<br />While we're at it, just running all the possible power wire inside the bike frame would work.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-90055130675926942012012-02-17T05:36:00.000-08:002012-02-17T05:43:30.515-08:00clever 3 speed unicycle rig<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPMfpav23DCrgxpaxZ5q99E2QLGkSvF2mrQu24LS66plT2GaJFj-wY9XkVqBr-SGOIuZZ0Cw00L3pQNMJdcByoB3zMexuuod-FhCOnxTorlIlnRi4nA2nSus0mkelPJttWBn0WJMM0Jw/s1600/CAD+Model+of+full+uni.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 321px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPMfpav23DCrgxpaxZ5q99E2QLGkSvF2mrQu24LS66plT2GaJFj-wY9XkVqBr-SGOIuZZ0Cw00L3pQNMJdcByoB3zMexuuod-FhCOnxTorlIlnRi4nA2nSus0mkelPJttWBn0WJMM0Jw/s400/CAD+Model+of+full+uni.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710098457434021794" /></a><br /><br />http://www.unicyclist.com/forums/showthread.php?t=89581<br /><br />So when I was informed a few months ago that Sturney Archer had just released an internal hub for fix gear bikes I ordered one immediately! <br /><br />The S3X has 3 speeds of 1.00, 0.75, and 0.625, so nowhere near the nuvinci's current 360% range but on the plus it's just $140 and it works bidirectionally out of the box. <br /><br />My goal was to try and design a drive around this that could be attached to a standard uni frame with no modifications. Here is what the spacial concept was like:<br /><br />29" KH frame, both chains on the inside, with one going from the pedal drive sprocket up to the input of the S3X hub, and the other from a sprocket on the flange of the S3X hub down to the wheel.<br /><br />A cross sectional view of the hub itself should be pretty self explanatory. The spindle and cranks naturally spin independently of the hub body:<br /><br />I had a few bike sprockets pulled from cassette freehubs kicking around, so with the pickings from that I designed it for 28 teeth on the pedal, down to 15T on the S3X. Then the bolted to the flange of the S3X was a 21 tooth, which connected to an 18 tooth on the wheel. <br /><br />So the overall chain ratio was 28/15 * 21/18 = 2.18<br /><br />Combine that with the 1.0, 0.75, 0.625 ratios of the S3X hub and the 24" wheel and the final result should be a uni with the physical size of a 24" but 3 speeds of 52", 39", and 33"<br /><br />-----<br /><br />D - very nice! Maybe my mid-steer thru-front-wheel-pedal will need to use this layout initially. Until the gear hub companies take notice and build them for this layout.<br />Though a hydraulic pump so it is RWD might be simpler, ultimately.<br />The mid-steer with FWD will need at least a lite 12V rear e-assist for moving uphill on loose gravel. <br /><br />D - to be fair, with Justin's clever layout, there is really no limit to what gear hub could be used. A Rohloff becomes practical.<br />The hub on my bike layout would make sense as far forward as possible, to add ballast to the front tire on a FWD bike.<br />Ditto a battery pack for the rear tire E-assist.<br />As a bonus, my layout would not flip forward like a standard SWB. I had to loosen the front tire to prevent that. My Cruzbike became a unicycle briefly, when I most needed 2 tires!<br /><br />Um, is Rohloff ever gonna release that new lighter 580% gear range gear hub? I don't mind that it cannot handle too much torque. After all, the lack of weight on the FWD front wheel of my proposed mid-steer means the tire will slip well before the gear hub fails.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-46923993150799596942012-02-06T07:37:00.001-08:002012-02-06T08:01:21.291-08:00on solar power on top fairing on bike<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiWydHwJ4VrWJLn36hYaLNmnKwiNZ-zvdHTVdPxSRHlY0cZ6RhT5wYFvqVP7dUJcKqv7nW3xsvpi1qQmnm6oLElbm5r44LC2bZHFwG1ODWYe23DeH6EjWWUl5RwpdZUj_0j5F4ow87Z8/s1600/LiSEC+revolutionizes+glass.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 323px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiWydHwJ4VrWJLn36hYaLNmnKwiNZ-zvdHTVdPxSRHlY0cZ6RhT5wYFvqVP7dUJcKqv7nW3xsvpi1qQmnm6oLElbm5r44LC2bZHFwG1ODWYe23DeH6EjWWUl5RwpdZUj_0j5F4ow87Z8/s400/LiSEC+revolutionizes+glass.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706052834089438034" /></a><br />http://flexsolarcells.com/Rollable_Series.php<br /><br />D - sheesh, hard to find detailed size/ dimension/ weight info.<br /><br />Roughly, 1x2', c. 6W, c. $200 bux.<br />And for less than a POUND.<br /><br />D - I don't need that much flexibility.<br />Just being able to flex along the top fairing ogive would suffice.<br />But dunno if any rigid plastic units can do so.<br />Anybody know?<br /><br />D - the initial fairing project was just gonna use a 4x8' of Lexan, with half for the top and bottom fairing respectively.<br />Just gonna cut out outline, flex and clamp into place.<br />No fancy 3D bubble blowing to start. Maybe later.<br />I don't have shop setup, though could manage it in my basement.<br /><br /> D- so 2 of the above panels would run a shocking $400 bux. I say that as a guy who is not working full-time yet.<br />BUT 12Watts of power to play with...<br /><br />In my last blog, I mused about using a non-freewheeling direct drive hub motor to<br />1) get power for a burst when needed from a battery and capacitor that<br />2) it trickle charges when needed or<br />3) power lights at night or<br />4) consumer appliances by day.<br /><br />D - the solar power concept involves some modifications.<br />1) a motor for use at typical day touring speeds, less torque, higher top RPM (it's OK if during commute speeds, or downhill, if it is not of use - more important to be also of use on gradient during a long haul slog)<br />2) charges battery to power the lights at night, <br />3) powers consumer electronics during the day.<br />D - you would want the solar permanently affixed to the top fairing, which is itself securely anchored to the bike frame.<br />Down the road, a secure closing 'clamshell' layout can alleviate theft concerns. Once the bike frame concept gets turned inside out, we know longer have an endoskeleton with a fairing on it.<br />The fairing becomes structural, a true endoskeleton. Like a lobster.<br />The process of smashing into the bike precludes stealing an intact bike. If the bits are attached securely, looting it is not rewarding either. Finally, a thoughtful redesign of that sonic alarm lock I have 2 of will be the icing on this cake.<br />If you cut the cable, you have a wailing bike.<br />I'd like to add flashing lights too.<br /><br />Clearly some of my power system ideas require a real technically savvy power system designer.<br />My bro in law knows lotsa other engie specialists. Plus a galpal is dating a guy who builds electrical systems.<br />I do rely heavily on others for that with my liberal arts back ground!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-20490155898817733572012-02-05T06:19:00.000-08:002012-02-05T06:31:09.480-08:0012volt generator ideaD - see John Tetz's idea at IHPVA.<br /><br />I wanted a very light power assist only. Tetz pioneered that.<br /><br />Other sites say you want something so big and heavy that you then NEED it to accelerate quickly or to go uphill. Basically a motor that can deliver 100W to match the typical rider's 100W.<br /><br />Today I was looking into the idea of rewiring (or findig ) a hub motor to 12V that<br />1) has a direct drive and no freewheel, and<br />2) a planetary gear for better torque.<br />These ARE quite light compared to the typical alternative.<br />I like the idea of a constant-draw generator that<br />1) can be used via battery as a motor <br />2) charges that battery<br />3) powers lights at night or<br />4) powers a car-style cigarette power adapter for various appliances such as<br />i) music player<br />ii) cell phone<br />iii) GPS unit.<br />On a road trip (or cross country tour), I'm always gonna be using it for those 4 uses anyway, so don't mind the constant draw. So long as it is not too much.<br /><br />However, not cheap and much hassle to install a hub motor for all that.<br /><br />I found this decade-old obsolete ZAP Zeta III rim motor.<br /><br />http://www.zapworld.com/node/1050<br />There IS 1 on ebay this month. POS with dead battery, but I can do that externally. Plus the battery tek has come a long ways since then. I'd like brushless too but meh.<br /><br />Clearly this won't deliver much torque. But it lets me explore some ideas.<br /><br />For brief and strong assist (at 2x the motor capacity, for a short period before the overheating causes permanent damage), the former 12V hub motor is better.<br />Based on my results with the ZAP, maybe I'll be encouraged to continue this project.<br />With so little juice, the structural components could be trimmed down to save weight.<br /><br />Again, I'd note that the steady RPM at the pedal makes the crank and bottom bracket ultimately a much more sensible place to place a dynamo or generator.<br /><br />I wonder about my 'nitro boost' idea for a brief power surge when you need it using a capacitor array.<br />When a big dog is chasing you, there is no such thing as too much power! <br /><br />Cheers.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-81173708982568477142012-02-04T05:01:00.000-08:002012-02-04T05:03:40.573-08:00just for kicks - the penny farthing original bikehttp://www.therecord.com/living/article/665529--this-old-thing-penny-farthing-could-be-peddled-for-1-800<br /><br />Your delightful bicycle, with its different sized wheels, is called an “ordinary” or more commonly a “penny farthing.” This name is a reference to the large penny and the small quarter-penny (farthing) coins used in England in the past. <br /><br />A Frenchman, Eugene Meyer, is credited with inventing the “high bicycle” around 1870. He based his bicycle design on the theory, the larger the front wheel, the farther one could go with each pump of the pedals. In the 1880s, an Englishman improved on Meyer’s contraption and Victorian England went crazy over penny farthings. There were competitions involving hundreds of bicycles and a plethora of newspaper reportage and cartoons featuring people pulling “headers” (going over the handlebars) or falling backwards when riding uphill. After the invention of the “safety” bicycle that had two identical wheels, the old-fashioned PF was referred to as the “ordinary.”<br /><br />------------------<br /><br />D - hmm, the pedal-thru-front-wheel mid-steer concept is a descendant of this.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-3334711881236255232012-01-24T08:20:00.000-08:002012-01-24T08:39:27.470-08:00nice 4 season bike<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepVONxfNXbYxdkcs9ee1DAQPZpP3BgrTKtishsGqDyUGR0PxpGfhQOFxW-6pHyEPEDjPCUS-5eYbEZKDTs3-o6GmEKZKwMFNiBXmcEW0FXdoK1niLpg-3LnbTMuc4K7Az2DaRKenSWOA/s1600/polar_bike624x370.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 221px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepVONxfNXbYxdkcs9ee1DAQPZpP3BgrTKtishsGqDyUGR0PxpGfhQOFxW-6pHyEPEDjPCUS-5eYbEZKDTs3-o6GmEKZKwMFNiBXmcEW0FXdoK1niLpg-3LnbTMuc4K7Az2DaRKenSWOA/s400/polar_bike624x370.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701235049828426114" /></a><br /><br />See bikehugger.<br /><br />D - I was thinking BMX tires the rest of the season.<br />With the wide axle for a snow tire.<br /><br />I recall trying to snow bike in heavy deep snow a few years ago.<br />Either I leaned over the tire or the rear- but something was always failing to move.<br />Snow tires, huh?<br />I bet you could hydroplane in water, with that little ground pressure...<br />I'd want some spikes too.<br />Though they wear out in no time.<br /><br />I was thinking recessed studs that only extend above a certain tire pressure, so as to not wear out snow tires with studs on not-so-snowy days. Asphalt proved brutal.<br /><br />D - put a folding joint on a BMX-y bike like this, and you have a well rounded bike.<br /><br />Aside- I'm pondering whether I can accomplish my cargo requirements on a 48 inch vs 60 inch base. I had pondered a 'stretch' SWB bent bike with a LWB wheel base.<br />Well, the sticking point is fitting cargo. My rucksack-as-seat-back concept means I need about an additional foot of storage space behind the seat back.<br /><br />One solution that does involve extending the wheelbase would be a highly unusual luggage rack. Basically I'd want it higher and farther back- to the point of hanging more BEHIND the rear tire than ABOVE it. This would involve a frame near the rear tire axle that has an elevated and offset 'axle rack mount', as well as a faux standard seat tube to attach it to. <br />I am very unimpressed with the stability of dual-suspension mountain bike racks. Even after replacing that aluminum t-joint that failed with steel, the whole thing is still pretty wobbly. But then I mounted a steel ammo box on top too.<br />That is without any cargo in the folding racks on each side.<br /><br />My proposed scheme would involve 2 folding baskets - plus a rear and centre small steel ammo box for sealed/secure storage. Plastic is light- and flimsy. Plus a guy in town with one said the joint eventually fails. Steel lasts.<br />Keep in mind the whole rack luggage setup must be higher than normal, while keeping mass as low as possible. The folding luggage racks carry my heavy groceries.<br />I was still pondering a 3rd luggage rack top and centre over the rear tire for light stuff. For groceries, that would allow a minimax of stable handling and cargo storage. However, for a tour bike I am finding this requirement in competition with a decent tapered rear countour from the sides. If I don't slap a box on the sides over luggage, I guess the left-right and centre folding racks would work.<br />Keep in mind the whole design also includes a full-size ruck sack. <br /><br />Folding point: particularly is planning a 60 inch wheelbase, I'd want the bike to fold. I'd like the option to throw it on a Greyhound bus in storage, for example. Or for it not to occupy most of a hotel room. <br />Fitting in a tent foyer would be nice too. Else I need a 2-person tent if I wanna shelter it.<br />I figured a folding hinge so it goes over the top vs side in movement fits my last design. My last design has 2 side-by-side off-centre left-right parallel tubes for structure.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-6349758316143059022011-12-04T06:28:00.000-08:002011-12-04T06:38:12.105-08:00hammerschmidt alternative to schlumf drive<a href="http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Truvativ-HammerSchmidt-Preview-2008.html">http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Truvativ-HammerSchmidt-Preview-2008.html</a><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> 22/36 or 24/38 gear range.</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">• 1: 1 or Overdrive ranges. 1:1 means the chainring does one full revolution with every pedal stroke. Overdrive is approximately 1:1.6.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Expect the HammerSchmidt to cost between $700 and $800 for the Bottom Bracket, Crank arms and Trigger shifter. Available starting December of this year.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">2011 </span><em style="font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">Truvativ HammerSchmidt</em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; "> All Mountain Crankset. Item: TRV118 Actual</span><em style="font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">Weight</em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">:"Actual </span><em style="font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">Weight</em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">" means we </span><em style="font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">weighed</em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; "> this item ourselves. 1467 g; $649.00 </span><b style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">...</b></div><div><b style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; "><br /></b></div><div><b style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">-------------</b></div><div><a href="http://www.schlumpf.ch/hp/sd/sd_engl.htm">http://www.schlumpf.ch/hp/sd/sd_engl.htm</a></div><div><br /></div><div>1.65x. </div><div><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><b>Weight</b></span><p style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><span >Including spindle, bearings and spider, excluding chainring and cranks: 790g (46 tooth chainring with chainring bolts: 90g, cranks 220g each).<br />Please compare the total weight of <i><b>speed-drive</b></i> with the total weight of a triple chainring set including shifter, cable, derailleur. Example: Shimano Altus (48/38/28 teeth): weight incl. right crankarm: 1255g</span></p><p style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >D - not really sure what advantage the topic unit offers.</span></p><p style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >Slightly heavier, costs more.</span></p><p style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >D - I cannot find an updated gear calculator for all the new drives.</span></p><p style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >The K-Calc doesn't display properly with their new reduced window size. Lacks many newew gear hubs. Another site wouldn't load at all.</span></p><p style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >------------------</span></p><p style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >I remain wistful. If I could get a recumbent 'one size fits all' belt instead of chain, I could use it in all 'bent bikes. The weight savings for the long chainline would be considerable. <sigh><br /><br /></sigh></span></p><p style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><a href="http://www.schlumpf.ch/hp/zr/zr_engl.htm">http://www.schlumpf.ch/hp/zr/zr_engl.htm</a></p><p style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></p></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-13094397618230746932011-10-21T07:48:00.000-07:002011-10-21T08:33:38.614-07:00strange front suspension<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwK33z1i8yvA4n3kiAyhvi7w1omQndStCfxJ8riuLsFsIuTmoC-z8Hkk1fWmlfhN3EF20TAdIYTg1EE0kCCQPKLe58dofWOFiPpQq7Kd_z0QWA-MpeNURD8lkwzNXzf37dDK73H2pTfk/s1600/z1zz_softride_alum_bind.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 271px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwK33z1i8yvA4n3kiAyhvi7w1omQndStCfxJ8riuLsFsIuTmoC-z8Hkk1fWmlfhN3EF20TAdIYTg1EE0kCCQPKLe58dofWOFiPpQq7Kd_z0QWA-MpeNURD8lkwzNXzf37dDK73H2pTfk/s400/z1zz_softride_alum_bind.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665964127124996162" /></a><br />D - I saw what initially appeared to be a standard cruiser at the local bicycle shop.<div>Looking closer, it had a squat lil' spring shock mounted inside the frame just above and behind the front steering tube. I have never seen anything like that before!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.bikepro.com/products/stems/soft.html">http://www.bikepro.com/products/stems/soft.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>D - it looked a bit like this, but was inside the bike frame triangle.</div><div>Intriguing, since it raises the suspension to , say, inside a fairing on a 'bent bike.</div><div><br /></div><div>-------------------------</div><div><br /></div><div>Aside - for the purpose of my internal-chainline-in-bike-frame SWB 'bent concept, I may have figured out a better way to set up a Freelight dynamo. Basically, I set up kind of a 'mirror image' chainring on the left hand side of the frame (keep in mind the frame is dual side-by-side tubes).</div><div>I need clearance away from ferrous frame parts. </div><div>I have often lamented that Shimano has the patent on a bottom bracket dynamo, but is not building one- they're just sitting on it. My thought experiment to build one externally went nowhere- I simply could not non-invasively get the clearances required.</div><div>Anyway, the pedals spin at pretty much the same rate at any speed, about 60-90rpm, regardless of bike speed - unlike the tires! So the pedals seems the place to locate a dynamo.</div><div>By placing the magnets on the edge the rim of a flat disc mounted on the crank axle, we should manage to keep the magnet, mounted on a boom, away from the mass of steel bike parts.</div><div>This has the benefit with my proposed bike design to even appear pleasingly symmetrical with the chainring located in the 'mirror image' opposition position.</div><div>Possibly inserts to extend the pedals out, often used for those with knee pain, will be needed to gain the necessary clearances. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've thought through my Freelight 'amber sideways running light' idea.</div><div>I've decided that the 3 (not 4) single row LEDs are ideal. I can chop the base so the 3 aim over a broad range of angles. This should address any sideways directions not addressed by the front or rear lights. LEDs are notoriously highly directional.</div><div><br /></div><div>Who knows- maybe a dynamo could power a music player, or a cell phone on standby when not in use powering lights. This would require more complex power management.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">Most <em style="font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">current mobile phones</em> currently have <em style="font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">standby</em> power in the range of 150 to 300 mW.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">I'm thinking about how to incorporate brake/signal lights mounted on the extra-wide 3-basket rear luggage rack.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; ">The left-hand frame tube can be used to route all necessary power cables.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: small; "><br /></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-60068618010356451922011-10-14T08:02:00.000-07:002011-10-14T08:05:50.586-07:00wireless bicycle brake<a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/10/111013085105.htm">http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/10/111013085105.htm</a><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">To brake with the wireless brake, a cyclist has just to clench the rubber grip on the right handle. The more tightly the grip is clenched, the harder the disk brake on the front wheel works. It seems as if a ghost hand is in play, but a combination of several electronic components enables the braking. Integrated in the rubber grip is a pressure sensor, which activates a sender if a specified pressure threshold is crossed. The sender is integrated in a blue plastic box which is the size of a cigarette packet and is attached to the handlebar. Its radio signals are sent to a receiver attached at the end of the bicycle's fork. The receiver forwards the signal to an actuator, transforming the radio signal into the mechanical power by which the disk brake is activated. To enhance reliability, there are additional senders attached to the bicycle. These repeatedly send the same signal. In this way, the scientists hope to ensure that the signal arrives at the receiver in time, even if the connection causes a delay or fails. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">-------------------</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">D: fancy. Clean looking.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">But just running the cables inside the frame can accomplish that.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Update- getting bro-in-law civ engie to run stress calcs on my what-if bike frame.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">See 'my entry into bicycle design contest'.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">2 parallel side-by-side tubes need to match the strength of a SWB's single monolithic boom.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Note that mine is not perforated by the central tubes from steering and seat post.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">My latest tweak makes keeping water out easier.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">The chain return line is line with the bottom bracket now. </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-86605868234098691132011-08-05T08:50:00.000-07:002011-08-05T08:51:39.923-07:00alfine 11 gear not cheaphttp://www.bicyclestore.com.au/shimano-alfine-sg-s700-11-speed-internal-hub.html<br /><br />$555.<br />Ouch.<br /><br />Again, my concern is the lack of a very efficient direct drive gear.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-988033706288948482011-07-20T07:53:00.000-07:002011-07-20T07:55:12.131-07:00solar bike concepthttp://www.gizmag.com/solar-cross-pedal-electric-bicycle/19066/<br /><br /><br />The bike also has a third handlebar-mounted panel, along with a 24-volt 1-horsepower motor, a 5000 mah (milli Ampere hour) lithium-ion polymer (LIPO) main battery, two 5000 mah LIPO booster packs wired in series, and a 24-volt controller.<br /><br />Terry built the solar panels himself, out of eighth-inch polycarbonate sheeting, aluminum, and 18 x 6 x 6-inch (457 x 152 x 152-mm) mono crystalline cells. In order to keep the weight down, he drilled thousands of holes through the aluminum parts. The cells each put out 3.8 to 4 watts, together providing an estimated 8.7 volts of electricity. Using the controller, riders can assign them to charge any two of the three batteries.<br /><br />----<br />nice proof of concept!<br />I was thinking flexible solar thin film under a partial fairing which is transparent.<br />Plus mainly to power consumer electronics.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-53195085893102636182011-07-14T09:12:00.000-07:002011-07-14T09:51:45.034-07:00off road SWB bikes. best of class<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYeLwvjzLafEmg7xvy4_eBVfIYxb2v0uILpLQdapdPfxQLj_MCIRKlT-BY1yeRNNE7Z0r9wz7o9AZAJ5aqDCI8hAnSmb2zAYKC0gbCdjzEDjsnBS25FLxQkIbI-dxWyrn1dXwep4pFM8/s1600/ms28_455b.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 164px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYeLwvjzLafEmg7xvy4_eBVfIYxb2v0uILpLQdapdPfxQLj_MCIRKlT-BY1yeRNNE7Z0r9wz7o9AZAJ5aqDCI8hAnSmb2zAYKC0gbCdjzEDjsnBS25FLxQkIbI-dxWyrn1dXwep4pFM8/s400/ms28_455b.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629249394529914786" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfN2ho70l_gLmGSceRW60uWfThFynq5yjgNAroD6UZ8BgPw5_lPyuCrNX3sXAAfd-gDJhU9ev2cthUxl3bA7EeYGfrLPLuSctc4aoGyxlxuedsbI4RYuKgGaYPjYReDU-yzC2obmk1cU/s1600/min_1271852468.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfN2ho70l_gLmGSceRW60uWfThFynq5yjgNAroD6UZ8BgPw5_lPyuCrNX3sXAAfd-gDJhU9ev2cthUxl3bA7EeYGfrLPLuSctc4aoGyxlxuedsbI4RYuKgGaYPjYReDU-yzC2obmk1cU/s400/min_1271852468.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629249276032880690" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxIOMopPRemqFwdWZbcy3Y2pmF8ORp7jK7U2qWcwnRVXuE6sP6hW7b_Ow-j-FKSPA80aequPHZ9EqvXLCsFayVRCSVAuPcE9x9KbC6oWkWt6ujsYT-b7gDo2zxRHRVjOBZ0fZn2uyNBw/s1600/optima-orca-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxIOMopPRemqFwdWZbcy3Y2pmF8ORp7jK7U2qWcwnRVXuE6sP6hW7b_Ow-j-FKSPA80aequPHZ9EqvXLCsFayVRCSVAuPcE9x9KbC6oWkWt6ujsYT-b7gDo2zxRHRVjOBZ0fZn2uyNBw/s400/optima-orca-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629248980726549266" /></a><br />D: really, just <br /><br /><br />http://www.rbr.info/store.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&category_id=55&product_id=147<br />---------------------<br />Re: Azub Max.<br /> <br />The Azub Max has an offroad variant. I don't know what currency their sites u...<br /> <br />1:20 PM (23 hours ago)<br />Reply<br />Peter Stull to me<br /> <br />show details 3:07 PM (21 hours ago)<br /> <br /><br />The basis Max frameset is $2200, Basic complete bike is $3200.<br />-----------------------<br />D - so comparable to the price of the Meta Bike frameset.<br />Hmm, Orca is winning for total-setup price.<br /><br />I confess, the adjustable seat/et al position of the Azub series is unprecedented.<br />Plus the rear-boom extension for trips allows 2 sets of panniers, like some grasshopper models. It makes me wonder about a DIY rig for the Orca.<br />I cannot believe the company does not offer that.<br /><br />Peter Stull<br />Bicycle Man LLC<br />Recumbent bikes and trikes<br />------------------------<br />But you see the appeal of my 'long-short wheelbase' layout though.<br />A lot of the benefit of a 'bent bike is lower air drag.<br />By adding the 2nd set of panniers lower, we increase front cross section.<br />In fact, we end up with a profile much like an upright bike when done.<br /><br />I remain intrigued by the idea of a wide carry rack that could hold an additional folding basket on top.<br />I have 2 side folding baskets which must be permanently affixed.<br />I'd like to modify that to have pannier style mounts so they can be removed.<br />An unlikely benefit of my 24i tires on my youth frame is the additional space between the top of the tire and the rack.<br />(Recall that I have a Cruzbike.)<br />I confess that I like the lower centre of gravity with groceries.<br />I hope to have 2 grocery bags with heavy stuff low and left/right,<br />with 1 additional lighter one high and mounted on an extra-wide rack.<br />Those folding baskets match the size of a reusable grocery bag perfectly.<br />But are darn heavy the rest of the time.<br />My bike weighs in at 60lbs!<br /><br />Aside - not too impressed with the Front wheel drive.<br />My front tire tried to slide sideways when I spun out on gravel uphill.<br />Scary.<br />I suppose on pavement this is not an issue.<br />But you'd think something with mountain bike tires could go off-road! Nope.<br /><br />D - I am intrigued by the Meta Bike biz model of just selling frames.<br />I mean, my 'everyman' 'bent bike entry just uses standard parts anyway.<br />(Just a very basic chain-inside-frame layout.)<br />As much as I like the Flevobike Greenmachine, it only comes with 20i tires and<br />costs about 6000 bux!<br />Plus I'd prefer if Rohloff released a 580% gear hub for it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-56184800158126633882011-07-06T07:52:00.000-07:002011-07-06T08:07:25.662-07:00d30 gel gloves. review.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9txBzcOb9u6z96FNMiyhs40Mb0FrB4vvgp30nYU52xr3G2BS_p22OhsjnflLTPEY_3Zz6WenhQNfmK3yRGRAz6Ux_bWlHtLcAveGfy-hjyFDIOZ4Ac4C0lnV5QwEHxPVFb9X80A8Opkc/s1600/glove+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9txBzcOb9u6z96FNMiyhs40Mb0FrB4vvgp30nYU52xr3G2BS_p22OhsjnflLTPEY_3Zz6WenhQNfmK3yRGRAz6Ux_bWlHtLcAveGfy-hjyFDIOZ4Ac4C0lnV5QwEHxPVFb9X80A8Opkc/s400/glove+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626253975974030018" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxhoREFVfsQispXQ4GSw2tYNFcGvfBKiv5nsTjpiKnBMQlCbe6QIEI7c_Y6jUccNXiiQo_APf61NUPGYnbqrzl3RT09l7Iemxra73c44VlfNQ6GefnZxvXX5Zbnnlaoy1Fn_x2ez-c2BQ/s1600/glove+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxhoREFVfsQispXQ4GSw2tYNFcGvfBKiv5nsTjpiKnBMQlCbe6QIEI7c_Y6jUccNXiiQo_APf61NUPGYnbqrzl3RT09l7Iemxra73c44VlfNQ6GefnZxvXX5Zbnnlaoy1Fn_x2ez-c2BQ/s400/glove+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626253809011256114" /></a><br /><br />http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/clothing/gloves/product/review-661-evo-d30-glove-09-34382/<br /><br />D: they looked so promising that I ran out and bought a pair.<br />For 50 bux, I would not complain.<br />For 100 plus, I will.<br />The quality control is terrible.<br />If you look at the pic, you'll see one of the finger guards is almost 1cm off the placement on the other glove.<br />And the gel knuckle guard is no better.<br />The left glove is fine.<br />But the right glove has it so far over that the right index-finger knuckle is barely covered. Worse, all my friends promptly tested them by punching stuff. So the threading is starting to tear out on that knuckle too.<br /><br />All in all, not worth the money.<br /><br />I want my money back.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-65437477850918975412011-04-16T05:47:00.000-07:002011-04-16T05:50:36.509-07:00we still don'tknow how a bicycle balanceshttp://motherboard.tv/2011/4/14/we-still-don-t-really-know-how-bikes-work--2<br /><br />Basically, they took a bike with two small wheels and built in mechanisms that canceled out the caster and gyro effects. Launched at a speed of 5 mph, the bike stayed upright. When it leaned to one side, the bike righted itself. Just like any old bike would. “It’s all about how bicycle leaning automatically causes steering, which can bring the wheels back under a falling bike,” explains Andy Ruina, professor of mechanics at Cornell and a co-author of the Science paper.<br /><br />So, the key to making a bike unstable is screwing around with a bike’s ability to steer itself. Or by misadjusting the “trail, the front-wheel gyro or the front-assembly, center-of-mass position,” the paper explains in more technical-speak. The researchers expect their work might be used to innovate bicycle design in ways thought impossible before: “The evolutionary process that has led to common present bicycle designs might not yet have explored potentially useful regions in design space.”<br /><br />http://www.sciencemag.org/content/332/6027.subject-indexUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-82484430096015700222011-01-18T08:17:00.000-08:002011-01-18T08:50:54.443-08:00folding bikes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZmTktZRjoJYIUwfLWqjg99drsaYtR4AxI2UAx6CB4RBEOS9MXY0vCa7hot7zsjFG2sGUF9FhFlHF8c6ByOt-loJ8hB_L68r83K3ByDfvuylyyX83Yi1_GsFDHTEXSkkj_1ex1drShnw/s1600/8b679bcbd7d20883a308c0759e2f909f-orig.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZmTktZRjoJYIUwfLWqjg99drsaYtR4AxI2UAx6CB4RBEOS9MXY0vCa7hot7zsjFG2sGUF9FhFlHF8c6ByOt-loJ8hB_L68r83K3ByDfvuylyyX83Yi1_GsFDHTEXSkkj_1ex1drShnw/s400/8b679bcbd7d20883a308c0759e2f909f-orig.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563568657336889826" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYw80WkVppB76odhGsjQ2mIi4Pl873rx3csxzzNpV-2VffNxVwL0CBN5IzKogDz6JHxUbSJzCIQgRKnWnrpBANn4i8RHVPHswqCpHQCYA-B1JcyHNFJA20I0p92ru7NdE-G6ry551s7M/s1600/grasshopper2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYw80WkVppB76odhGsjQ2mIi4Pl873rx3csxzzNpV-2VffNxVwL0CBN5IzKogDz6JHxUbSJzCIQgRKnWnrpBANn4i8RHVPHswqCpHQCYA-B1JcyHNFJA20I0p92ru7NdE-G6ry551s7M/s400/grasshopper2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563566279305246498" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdYDdV8zBQVsVw1w4KJN79R5ijwL7fRSiPPx3wo0wIjBH7qzwLg5aAqqW5EXd9n1LHDDpMMi_aqwbN17Gdn4QR9nSHzcEGsGjPOkYUmai1Zt9mIH37rvJBcrrX9JncgC0DRsxysiLgWY/s1600/FoldingBike.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdYDdV8zBQVsVw1w4KJN79R5ijwL7fRSiPPx3wo0wIjBH7qzwLg5aAqqW5EXd9n1LHDDpMMi_aqwbN17Gdn4QR9nSHzcEGsGjPOkYUmai1Zt9mIH37rvJBcrrX9JncgC0DRsxysiLgWY/s400/FoldingBike.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563560921307617634" /></a><br /><br />http://hight3ch.com/ingenious-folding-bike/<br />D: that is the smallest package ever.<br /><br />http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmnkAviUFBU<br />D: a trike that folds down, apparently with no tools.<br /><br />http://www.calhouncycle.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=95<br />D: I see why my bud Tim bought a Gotham Citybike instead - about a 1000 bux difference!<br /><br />http://www.velomobiling.com/gallery/OtherVehicles/Folders/?g2_GALLERYSID=77dc78bcec710568fd6b699abbcd025f<br /><br />D - I started thinking about a folder. My 'stretch limo' SWB RWD 'bent bike concept is gonna have a 60 inch wheelbase - plus the pedals out front! Be nice to be able to fish out the chain from inside the frame, and halve the length.<br /><br />My later 'oyster' concept bikes will have handlebars and seats that fold down. They won't fold in half with rigid partial fairings.<br />But they will seal shut against theft and weather. So long as the wheel hubs can only be accessed from inside, they could have quick-release monofork wheels for ease of changes on the road.<br /><br />http://www.yankodesign.com/2007/09/03/grasshopper-the-folding-recumbent-bike/<br /><br />http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/adams-trail-a-bike.html<br /><br />http://www.bazookasports.com/beach-3-orange-sold-out-p-12.html?zenid=5dfe09347d8c17c16441c2bba298b2e8<br />A full size cruiser that folds in the middle.<br /><br />http://www.amazon.com/Double-Suspension-Folding-Shimano-Silver/dp/B002LTDER4<br />D: I almost wish I built my Cruzbike around a folder.<br />The thing is a beast to store.<br /><br />http://www.oobject.com/category/concept-folding-bikes/<br />D: there are trail bikes with tiny wheels.<br />Then 'real' bikes for 'real' roads. With real potholes.<br /><br />The 'briefcase bikes' are pretty KISS, given that you will want a carry case anyway.<br /><br />D: the folding 'bent bike pic is useful.<br />The diagonal packing scheme is pretty sensible.<br />Though the pic is of a long wheelbase, many aspects apply.<br />I suspect the front pedals could be on a pivot.<br />It'd be elegant to have it turn on the front wheel steering tube, but I imagine devilishly difficult.<br />'n of course, there will be a very long chain to stow somewhere.<br />A simple way to address steering would be to allow an ergonomic change of position,but to make that joint able to lie flat along the bike body. The seat rear, of course, comes off as a backpack.<br />D.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-12789044106463520892011-01-14T13:49:00.000-08:002011-01-14T14:27:49.671-08:00nice primer on air resistance. stationary fan.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MIYHy-yk1T6cMmzvUFl05j6XtOzzBq55DUoiF0Ms3dvIv9VYrAs2ZsBrKOlpdzEFPDahXywuOor1ob98Y5kf0tzvOWt6vDmmz5uwFFKyIBrfYP7yLzbEbPQzJattNlDNFJ40otWHUUM/s1600/51R84CXSR9L._SL500_AA300_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MIYHy-yk1T6cMmzvUFl05j6XtOzzBq55DUoiF0Ms3dvIv9VYrAs2ZsBrKOlpdzEFPDahXywuOor1ob98Y5kf0tzvOWt6vDmmz5uwFFKyIBrfYP7yLzbEbPQzJattNlDNFJ40otWHUUM/s400/51R84CXSR9L._SL500_AA300_.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562171767113932226" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ZM8zX0SaFKZJKpFaoy1nRdZvjyNGZaA32MaEU2aOLXFdVtZFiTh_z6GJIwLuH-l8kNCE8zWyfr2ewXoym1Cp7_QS6ettqilh-0ARpDLQKEC1_zU7gQxI4MozC_yOjuWpyUjkrGDnn9w/s1600/100_0905.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ZM8zX0SaFKZJKpFaoy1nRdZvjyNGZaA32MaEU2aOLXFdVtZFiTh_z6GJIwLuH-l8kNCE8zWyfr2ewXoym1Cp7_QS6ettqilh-0ARpDLQKEC1_zU7gQxI4MozC_yOjuWpyUjkrGDnn9w/s400/100_0905.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562168658360131906" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUxG4mwaxcDefTOcUZuFyY3vGY6C4WlykzcTTcq9E-m0y4KDmy9dKuo6kd9yBB6I2KjnsZ5wFLUTqUeRCYs8tcfsYBMn6ay9sCAVF7nFr9uN4ednPMZGm5wEkaxlJqH2dSTNMvuKOzao/s1600/267cfig2.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 323px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUxG4mwaxcDefTOcUZuFyY3vGY6C4WlykzcTTcq9E-m0y4KDmy9dKuo6kd9yBB6I2KjnsZ5wFLUTqUeRCYs8tcfsYBMn6ay9sCAVF7nFr9uN4ednPMZGm5wEkaxlJqH2dSTNMvuKOzao/s400/267cfig2.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562165370555815906" /></a><br /><br />http://www.pponline.co.uk/encyc/cycling-equipment-the-effect-of-aerodynamics-and-drag-on-cycling-performance-40874<br /><br />D: this chart is a bit misleading. Sure the air resistance does increase as the cube of speed.<br />But the other aspects of a bike matter still.<br />Linear so less and less a part of the total energy required.<br />But the chart exaggerates the use of a recumbent with fairing.<br />Particularly when weight is considered!<br />Let alone other practical considerations.<br /><br />D: strangely I could not find a decent front profile pic of a bent online. At least not easily. So I took one of my Cruzbike.<br />Keep in mind my seat position is very upright for a bent.<br />But is sooo comfortable.<br />And I improve on the 'aero tuck' cross section in 'lazyboy' comfort!<br />I once tried to demonstrate the aero tuck to a co-worker. And promptly sprained my neck! WHY?!<br /><br /><br />http://www.bacchettabikes.com/support/performance/bacchetta.php<br /><br />But because the power to overcome rolling resistance is linear with speed, and the power consumed by air resistance is a cubic function with speed…by the time you get to 20+ MPH typically over 70% of the overall power you deliver to the pedals will be consumed by air drag!<br /><br /> For example, let's say that the tires rolling resistance power/wattage equals the aero drag power at 12 MPH, which is pretty typical. So at 12 MPH, we have one unit of power going to overcome rolling resistance (RR), and one unit of power going to overcome aero drag at let's say a total of 40 watts at 12 MPH. That would be 20 watts for aero drag and 20 watts for rolling resistance at 12 MPH.<br /><br /> When we double our speed to 24MPH, we now need 40 watts of power for RR because it is linear with speed, or 2 X 20 watts. Since the aero power is proportional to the cube of the speed, when we double our speed the aero drag component becomes (2^3) x20 watts, or 8 X 20 watts= 160 watts.<br /><br /> When we add the aero and RR components together at 24MPH, we now have 40 watts + 160 watts= 200 watts @ 24 MPH.<br /><br /> We only doubled our speed from 12 to 24 MPH, but the power required went up by a factor of 5 (40 to 200 watts) because of the dominance of the aero drag at higher speeds.<br /><br />-----<br />Mechanical chain drive for a fan for a stationary bike resistance unit.<br /><br />D: I have a nifty 200 bux on sale magnetic stationary unit.<br />It works. I guess.<br />But it is just not the same as the wind whistling past me.<br />I'd say ruffling my hair but I just went bald LOL.<br />Anyway, there are plenty of electricity generator schemes online.<br />But I just want to run a long chain forward to an industrial fan.<br />Shouldn't be too hard to get a decent match to air resistance.<br />Plus it cools you.<br />And psychologically I MISS that air movement!!!<br /><br />I'm just thinking thru wais required to DIY.<br />A long chain. I imagine a bent owner already has one for RWD.<br />A floor guide for components. 2x4s and nails should work, with some plywood.<br />An additional chainring or two.<br />An adapter to switch movement direction at the fan back.<br />Tear the guts out of the electric motor. <br />A busted unit will suffice, so long as the bearings are fine.<br />A coupla lengths of chain 'n rings to get that power there.<br />Voila.<br />I imagine welding guides for all that to the stand on an industrial fan is simplest. Or bolting/strapping.<br /><br />Hmm. Now I wanna build it... <sigh>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-87157712715388683062010-12-05T07:56:00.000-08:002010-12-05T08:16:44.428-08:00transformer bike upright/bent<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRz6ZMGMc7UFg_q0EuUXlOV5N1IF1uQ6OjfJjSUJg84hXLHMe32U3jS-MEtHfnRtWiJnOWaG3hCCxSJIouTuWFH1tacllhv9lv-aGBWfm-B9gidY_0gymxpNaAgiEgnJFVOwOhu5Q5P7A/s1600/zweistil-04_1-525x393.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRz6ZMGMc7UFg_q0EuUXlOV5N1IF1uQ6OjfJjSUJg84hXLHMe32U3jS-MEtHfnRtWiJnOWaG3hCCxSJIouTuWFH1tacllhv9lv-aGBWfm-B9gidY_0gymxpNaAgiEgnJFVOwOhu5Q5P7A/s400/zweistil-04_1-525x393.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547227969727258658" /></a><br />http://www.solidsmack.com/product-design/tzweistil-recumbent-converting-bicycle-3d-cad-design-mock-up/<br /><br />very neat.<br /><br />http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCxSUg12RLc<br /><br />D: i had some similar ideas.<br />One switches between short and long wheelbase.<br />Necessarily is FWD with a simple pivot for chain. <br />The curved rails for the fairing make it pretty slick looking.<br /><br />I have another idea for re-arranging components to convert a mid-steer to front steer.<br />Be nice to switch from over to under easily too.<br /><br />Thinking on turning radius for effectively long wheelbase, midsteer.<br />Using handles that pivot attached rear a la Triton trike, could increase sharpness of possible turning radius.<br /><br />Thinking about mid-steer, maybe placing seat on third bar attached midway fore and aft.Result is the rider does not end up on outside of turn attempting to flip bike on turn. Always stays inside the turn - and more inside as turn become sharper.<br />That was an idea to try to keep legs sufficiently in line with pedal on a thru-front-wheel-pedal layout. But likely works better without this fancy setup.<br /><br />Still, intrigued by thru-front-wheel layout.<br /><br />I'm trying to figure out is a Rohloff hub could be easily modified to take pedal attachements. But have never played with one- any ideas?<br />This would pretty much necessitate a mid-steer layout.<br />The elegance makes it worth pursuing.<br /><br />I priced out capactiros and they are about 20 bux per for a c-battery size.<br />Doable.<br />Inspired by John Tetz. But my idea for a low-speed high torque only brief duration is unique.<br />1) you can lose all that big heavy gearing.<br />2) no battery. at all. regenarative braking for recharge. again, compact, light.<br />also cheaper.<br />A 'bent bike really only needs a help from a stop and a killer granny gear.<br />This temporary boost provided at high power output from an ultracapacitor array would not last long enough to overheat and fry a motor.<br />It is good for 100,000s of recharge cycles.<br />! likely cold-resistant. I killed more batteries winter cycling.<br />The regenerative braking function - assist really -not enough resistance to supplant a good rear brake (maybe just on front? I don't like the front tire to lock up.) could be used otherwise to power lights sans battery al a dynamo. And consumer electronics like a cell phone or music player otherwise.<br />I think we are not thinking of the right 'power assist (vs supplant) for a 'bent.<br /><br />D: this summer, I nearly ate a small asian woman. Not like that! >;<br />She didn't look and leisurely biked onto the main multiuse trail from a dirt side path. I haul on the brakes - both - hard - in panic. ...<br />My Cruzbike promptly became a unicycle on the front wheel. The rear tire flipped into the air and wobbled sideways. I managed to stop within a foot of hitting her.<br />Dumb bitch. ALWAYS look.<br /><br />Also the reason I am thinking about a battering ram on the Cruzbike. Seriously.<br />Cars to the edge of the bike lane. <br />Why should ruin my godawfully expensive chainring setup on FWD bike?<br />Better to leave ding in their car door.<br />I had some idiot jump in front of my bike. Hauled on brake, couldn't risk swerving into car lane without knowing if I'd eat a car. <br />He was drunk with buddies. Easy enough to kick me in the head.<br />Lot harder if I break his knee cap.<br />Sorry, it is a cold hard world out there.<br /><br />D.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-56657803064967173942010-11-22T01:46:00.000-08:002010-11-22T01:47:39.390-08:00alfine 11 sg 700 - pricehttp://www.google.com/products/catalog?client=google-alerts&gl=us&hl=en&num=50&oe=utf8&q=%22sg+s700%22+alfine&cid=571166582403510933&os=sellers#p<br /><br />600 bux<br /><br />Bikeman.com 21 seller ratings New $599.99<br />SmartBikeParts.com<br /><br />Again, will pass if there is no direct drive.<br />I'll use price difference to put downpayment on a Schlumph mountain drive.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-50163436824147012072010-11-11T06:27:00.000-08:002010-11-11T06:42:54.323-08:00diy or kit cargo bike extensions<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5tUMD5jose9wECBncuxDTYxmaAUCj8F_tGaOI0DPVkbaWk_HKVYX8oOnJzwLDftPSM3xQ7JYAdQ_3ks3L_5p4qDXANYA6xFuIh-mtSuhWUJK3aX7986mO1R-QZQ9_y9UtVYwBUjDBDQ/s1600/images1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 116px; height: 103px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5tUMD5jose9wECBncuxDTYxmaAUCj8F_tGaOI0DPVkbaWk_HKVYX8oOnJzwLDftPSM3xQ7JYAdQ_3ks3L_5p4qDXANYA6xFuIh-mtSuhWUJK3aX7986mO1R-QZQ9_y9UtVYwBUjDBDQ/s400/images1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538300430868124818" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJrrr38Hm6lv7tHagiLp9y7or24NcR1z8FNLds-zT4zprBEg5YpOfF6I6jPlHrREP68mmReaX-TPaq6_r65UTUwmvdB5q0_xlPcu914UMRtH-yYmu2O8oXBDwZOqcoANEgdvx6sh45zk/s1600/firstphoto.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 360px; height: 360px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJrrr38Hm6lv7tHagiLp9y7or24NcR1z8FNLds-zT4zprBEg5YpOfF6I6jPlHrREP68mmReaX-TPaq6_r65UTUwmvdB5q0_xlPcu914UMRtH-yYmu2O8oXBDwZOqcoANEgdvx6sh45zk/s400/firstphoto.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538300339269906162" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPp44VirsEK2CO5bqWguSpCV_xgE_vjT3d1yffBEiasHvxZg0EiL0nqwg69yjyBDB-mWUvZMfEWx2o9ZG5_WJGSOaLhbwOd7gA9JcNiiNshrqXFPXskuW7dOr_wwR4fCgCx6w4e615Rk/s1600/bike+cargo+mid.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPp44VirsEK2CO5bqWguSpCV_xgE_vjT3d1yffBEiasHvxZg0EiL0nqwg69yjyBDB-mWUvZMfEWx2o9ZG5_WJGSOaLhbwOd7gA9JcNiiNshrqXFPXskuW7dOr_wwR4fCgCx6w4e615Rk/s400/bike+cargo+mid.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538300164245385858" /></a><br />http://www.instructables.com/id/Xtends-Convert-Your-Bike-Into-A-Long-Cargo-Bike/<br /><br />This is a welded kit.<br />Chop up 2 bikes carefully and you might manage a front boom/ SWB bike.<br /><br />http://www.instructables.com/id/Cargo-Rack-Bike-Sport-Hauler/<br /><br />Bikes that Haul People<br /><br />In East Africa, there is a population of small business entrepreneurs known as "Boda Boda" operators who use bicycles as taxis. Most start their business by purchasing a standard bike and retrofitting it with a locally manufactured seat post and special seat cushion to accommodate passengers in <br /><br />back.http://bikefriendlynorthshore.wordpress.com/2010/05/05/longtail-cargo-bikes/<br /><br />D: I saw an extracycle in town. A mother was shopping with it. She said she can put 2 kids on it.<br /><br />Why I was thinking of it?<br />I just went to great effort to reattach a bike rack to my Cruzbike kit.<br />The Mongoose chassis is a cheap supercycle.<br />The frame geometry is unusual, being rectangular.<br /><br />I use the 'assit mount' to carry all the weight.<br />The aluminum part sheared, so I had custom steel replacements made.<br />Which never quite lined up.<br />So much tapping and drilling later, it is finally on again.<br />... standard frame geometry is a MUST for accessories!<br /><br />I see recumbent bikes in town, and their frames never allow standard upgright bike accessories to be attached. Why reinvent the wheel?<br />I was thinking about this when I saw the cargo bike extension.<br />Is there any reason a 'bent bike could not also take a cargo bike extension at the rear?<br />This would allow me to have a long-wheel-base SWB for touring, with cargo capacity.<br />But then- take it off- a standard wheelbase SWB short wheel base.<br />Obviously, this makes the design tricky. It could still be a Flevo Greenmachine knockoff, sans frame suspension.<br />(A thudbuster, though not cheap, is still far cheaper. Assuming it works.)<br /><br />I am also considering having some internal storage in the bike frame. Just use pressed sheet metal or plastic to enclose the chain area, with mount points.<br /><br />The detachable-externa-frame-rucksack-seat-back is enouraging a fat-ass-granny bike seat on the bottom portion. I saw some ridiculously oversized ones at McPhails.<br />I don't see the point of a seat bigger than my ass, though.<br /><br />Hmm, variable steering -at least maybe a swap-out cog for long/short wheelbase mode- would duplicate car 'power steering' in some respects.<br /><br />I continue to ponder the left /right weight symmetry and how to get various structural elements to add up correctly, including both top and bottom chains.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-43516727579405435822010-09-11T13:03:00.000-07:002010-09-11T13:10:48.531-07:00alfine 11 pricehttp://www.dotbike.com/ProductsP9760.aspx?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=comparison&utm_campaign=PMP<br /><br />D: 307 pounds sans shifter.<br />That's um..<br />Um US about x1.5 so... um call it 450.<br />A bit more Canadian.<br />Of course, with shifter, this goes well about 500.<br /><br />Still a fraction of the price of a Rohloff.<br /><br />http://cgi.ebay.com/Rohloff-Speedhub-Electronic-Gear-Shift-/330468483958?pt=Cycling_Parts_Accessories&hash=item4cf174e376<br />D: hmm electric pushbutton R-hub shifter. <br />Neat. Pointless, but neat.<br />Now if it was AUTOMATIC like a car...<br /><br />http://www.gizmag.com/shimano-dura-ace-di2-electronic-shift/11407/<br />D: good reviews though. For Shimano type.<br /><br />D: the NuVinci lends itself to automatic adjustment.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-80105460090150270172010-09-01T02:13:00.000-07:002010-09-01T02:14:49.731-07:00shimano alfine 11 gear sg-s700http://bike.shimano.com/publish/content/global_cycle/en/us/index/products/0/alfine/product.-code-SG-S700.-type-.html<br /><br />It tripped my Google search term alert.<br /><br />5th gear is direct drive- I think.<br />.995%.<br />VERY nice for a day tour bike!<br />Yup. I'm in love.<br />Waiting on price.<br /><br />You heard it hear FIRST.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-467982586942501210.post-10094154814688290772010-07-23T15:01:00.000-07:002010-07-23T15:06:15.866-07:00on a foam core carbon fibre frame<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLepp5RogG0Ovs4fqHdc7R-VLKWBq_CIuRvgH0xY7BrE52TPukysKbicECs6qtGa7xMLov8GKF33E8uWsDo6mXu9S47plGV0eVfs8Mkjs6yOkdO44FlxidRZG1z4UgieALRovU7dDCu1Q/s1600/sandwichframe.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 187px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLepp5RogG0Ovs4fqHdc7R-VLKWBq_CIuRvgH0xY7BrE52TPukysKbicECs6qtGa7xMLov8GKF33E8uWsDo6mXu9S47plGV0eVfs8Mkjs6yOkdO44FlxidRZG1z4UgieALRovU7dDCu1Q/s400/sandwichframe.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497226118079885730" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1rvl2OBoywY6we-2odRNU89eAqTbtMwE8nT5KKxzqH-V3pCdhw4HVNWG-0aBcCJ0YtG44dVuYYVtWQuhSRQge8ZNnm5x3Z__t2t4rXNVPW8C7YdNkvcNwsdqqp5K5Rd-xozLwiKJHWw/s1600/HPVwattschart.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1rvl2OBoywY6we-2odRNU89eAqTbtMwE8nT5KKxzqH-V3pCdhw4HVNWG-0aBcCJ0YtG44dVuYYVtWQuhSRQge8ZNnm5x3Z__t2t4rXNVPW8C7YdNkvcNwsdqqp5K5Rd-xozLwiKJHWw/s400/HPVwattschart.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497225758350954834" /></a><br />The chassis of Critical Power is a carbon fiber recumbent bicycle also known as a short wheel base, remote steered, front wheel drive lowracer. The frame was constructed from a single piece of carbon fiber sandwich board, then the frame shape was cut-out of the board. The edges were laminated, and the components were installed with aluminum brackets.<br />http://www.justgreg.com/HPVMain.html<br /><br />D: I could use foam wrapped in carbon fibre.<br />Different beast though.<br /><br />Likely to test with plywood (!) frame.<br /><br />To make sure all attachment points work.<br /><br />A heat resistant foam would play well with resin-impregnated fibre.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0