[python] Re: let us compare

Hello Brian,

 > Please give us the typical characteristics of the 3 principle
 > center-steer bikes:
 > Airbike
 > Flevobike
 > Python

Consider that I have ten-thousands of kilometers experience on both
airbike and python, but only several hundred on a flevobike. Better to ask real Flevonauts like Olaf or Dirk. 

 > How do they compare:

 > turning circle and sudden avoidance of obstacles etc
A clear ++ for flevo and airbike. I can survive with my python in the city traffic, but it is definitely not its favourite terrain. However bumping over an obstacle e.g. a stone has far more consequences on an airbike/flevo than on a python concerning stability and road impact. 

 > Ease of building
The airbike is very difficult to build. For the flevobike you have detailed building plans, whereas building a python is always from scratch. However python building is less challenging and costly as flevo-building I guess. 

 > Up hill

A clear ++ for the python. Airbike/flevo tend to loose traction very easily.

 > Down hill at speed
The other way round: Pythons are bitchy at +50 kph (at least for me) wheras airbikes/flevos even gain stability with the speed. Going fast (80kph) with the airbike felt like riding on rails. However I had an unsuspected accident with the flevo at 40kph which caused me to abandon this bike. 

 > Cross country over grass, sand and/or mud
Clear +++ for the python here. I love going off-road. Especially with the helps of your hands on the ground you can master difficult trails without having to unclip your feet. 

 > ease of dismantling for compact travel by car or rail
This is very construction dependant. The Monty built by Olaf folds rather small (see his page). The airbike also folded nicely (see my foto on the airbike site) and I guess the flevo also folds nicely and quick. Midsteerers are generally very suitable for folding. 

Sorry for the epic,
Jürgen.
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