Hi all.
OK, don't get the Popcorn out
just yet, this is just a 'teaser' for my first Sidecar Build Project.
Hoping to start later this year.
Actually, it'll be my second, if you count the Minimoto thing I built back in the late 90s . . .
I'll be using the Drivetrain from the 2008 Stelvio I picked up a few years back.
This is the basic idea I'm aiming for, as far as the general layout and riding position is concerned, but far less 'radical' styling-wise.
I've always wanted a Road-Legal F1 Race Outfit, it's been done a few times, but this should be just a tad more practical.
I've decided on the Front-End design.
I do like the one above, but I much prefer the Dual Arm types, with all the 'workings' within the Wheel, so it will be similar to the Krauser Domani.
Nice simple Box-Section Structures, skinned with thin Sheet Steel . . .
Definitely won't be painting it Pink though!
Will be using Car Components as much as possible, got the Stub Axles today for the front and Sidecar Wheels, will get the Hub Bearing Assemblies once I've decided what Wheels to use.
Thoughts on the Rear-End Arrangement . . .
I'm determined to have the Rear Wheel 'right-way-round' for a L/H Chair, so I'll be making a Swing-Arm for it.
Something along these lines . . .
I would have done that anyway, as Guzzi recommend not fitting a Sidecar to any of their CARC Models, due to the extra strain it puts on the Arm.
Mind you, there are plenty of CARC Outfits out there, on and off-road versions, and I've yet to see/hear of any failures.
Anyway, I have two basic choices as I see it, both obviously converting to Chain-Drive on the left of the Arm.
I'm thinking I can mount the CARC (Final-Drive) Unit directly to the rear of the Gearbox, linking the Gearbox Output and FD Input Splined Shafts with a Splined Sleeve (ends of the Shafts touching).
So the two basic options with the above in mind;
1. Have the Engine/Gearbox in-line with the Wheels, and have a Cross-Shaft bolted to the CARC Hub (where the Bike Wheel normally bolts on), which takes the drive over to the left, Sprocket mounted on that end.
Pros;
Keeps it looking more Bike-and-Sidecar.
Feels 'better', more natural, having the Engine directly in front of you?
Cons;
More work, parts to make, and more complex Structure having the Cross-Shaft.
More Structure to build for mounting the Front Suspension.
Larger, more complex Arms at the front?
2. Shift the Engine/Gearbox over to the left, Sprocket bolted directly to the CARC Hub, in-line with the Rear Sprocket.
Pros;
The whole Outfit would be more 'balanced', better handling, particularly in left-handers.
Less work, less parts to make, no Cross-Shaft needed.
Front Suspension Arms would be simpler to mount, as they could be inline with the Engine, so less and/or simpler Structure to build.
Arms could be more 'compact', more 'direct' connection from Pivots to Wheel Hub.
Swing-Arm would also be more in-line with the Gearbox, easier mounting, less Structure to build.
Cons;
Takes it away from the 'normal' Bike-and-Sidecar layout.
Might feel 'odd' for the Driver.
Encroaches on Chair space.
Thoughts?
