Another commuter option?

[Kitsap]

As a full time moto commuter there have been times I've tired of rain bouncing off my tank and over my head....this would be nice on occasion.

 

http://www.zdnet.com/blog/btl/lit-motors-unveils-concept-motorcycle-with-gyroscopic-stability-video/57893

[Ken H.]

Pretty interesting idea.

[tallman]

If the 150 mile range is accurate.....

I'd think about it based on recharge costs/battery life/ROI vs gas costs.

 

A big improvement over the Corbin Sparrow

 

I wonder how it works in serious twisties?

[Glenn Reed]

I wonder how it works in serious twisties?

 

I was wondering that as well. If the gyros are trying to keep the bike upright, and the rider/driver wants to lean into the curve, how does that work?

[Quinn]

I'd be worried about how long the batteries stay charged with it just sitting in a parking lot staying upright with the gyros sucking power to keep it upright.

 

----

 

 

[BerndM]

I don't get it!

I admire the inventiveness of the design, but isn't the concept of RIDING (instead of DRIVING) a motorcycle, to be out in the open air, feeling the wind on your face and so on???

If I were to spend 16K on this or on a "smart" car, I'd opt for the smart car. More practical, useful and arguably, safer too.

 

[Kitsap]

I don't get it!

I admire the inventiveness of the design, but isn't the concept of RIDING (instead of DRIVING) a motorcycle, to be out in the open air, feeling the wind on your face and so on???

If I were to spend 16K on this or on a "smart" car, I'd opt for the smart car. More practical, useful and arguably, safer too.

 

For my specific commute it would make sense, I board a ferry every day to get to work. The ticket price difference between a motorcycle and a car was enough to pay for my current bike. Another consideration is that bikes load first and when it's tight the ferry workers always find a spot for motos, a real plus during tourist season.

[upflying]

I wonder how it works in serious twisties?

 

I was wondering that as well. If the gyros are trying to keep the bike upright, and the rider/driver wants to lean into the curve, how does that work?

I think the gyros only work when stopped or riding slowly. Gyros shut off and the thing leans like a normal motorcycle at speed.

[Fubar]

Or you could try one of these. Its got a beemer inside.

http://www.automedia.com/Monotracer_Dry_Motorcycle/dsm20071001mr/3

[TestPilot]

Wasn't BMW's scooter with a roll hoop called the C-1?

[jviss]

I wonder how it works in serious twisties?

 

I was wondering that as well. If the gyros are trying to keep the bike upright, and the rider/driver wants to lean into the curve, how does that work?

I think the gyros only work when stopped or riding slowly. Gyros shut off and the thing leans like a normal motorcycle at speed.

That notion is in conflict with their assertion that the gyro stabilization will keep the machine upright when struck from the side in an accident.

 

I think it's a fanciful concept from a guy who's an industrial designer trolling for patents.

 

"Landing gear" of some sort would be infinitely more practical, lighter, and less expensive than a gyro for parking; side impact, you'll have to rely on a roll cage and/or armor.

[elkroeger]

Wade - An UNMBELLA HAT is what you need, and a much cheaper option. Although your friends down at the ferry dock might not be able to stop laughing....

[upflying]

I wonder how it works in serious twisties?

 

I was wondering that as well. If the gyros are trying to keep the bike upright, and the rider/driver wants to lean into the curve, how does that work?

I think the gyros only work when stopped or riding slowly. Gyros shut off and the thing leans like a normal motorcycle at speed.

That notion is in conflict with their assertion that the gyro stabilization will keep the machine upright when struck from the side in an accident.

 

I think it's a fanciful concept from a guy who's an industrial designer trolling for patents.

 

"Landing gear" of some sort would be infinitely more practical, lighter, and less expensive than a gyro for parking; side impact, you'll have to rely on a roll cage and/or armor.

 

No doubt Issac Newton would argue the physics of a non-leaning, gyro-stabilized, in-line two wheel vehicle while rounding a curve.

[jjsrt]

lots of info on Mono Tracer on line....love it....2 years to build by hand....lots of $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ 73-80K+...that kinda stops the average rider in his tracks....they should update the K motor with the "6" motor ..........holy licky split Batman!!!!!