[python] Re: pix Columbus python coiled and uncoiled
- From: Ray Schümacher <mtb@xxxxxxx>
- To: python@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
- Date: Sat, 11 Jun 2005 07:45:50 -0700
Hello Frank,
At 02:49 PM 6/10/2005, you wrote:
>Hi Jurgen, here some pix of my python. I have managed to ride as far a half a
>mile without having to put a foot down. But I am often surprized by sudden
>instability and have to make a controled landing.
I later found that my brain was the source of most unstable situations; I
sometimes mentally switch between hands and legs to steer, and so earlier on,
the coordination confusion could suddenly become dramatic.
I can't tell if your handlebars are attached to the front or rear. Mine are to
the front and I use them for the tightest turns and panic situations.
> I first set it at 67 degrees. It is now at 70 degrees. I don't know if this
> has effected stability because I could hardly ride it before.
I went from 64 to 70 deg. and found a big difference and it appears that our
dimensions are very similar. With 64 I found a lot of wheel flop for a lot less
direction change and my legs did a lot of going left-right. It also had a much
larger turn radius. After I re-welded to 70 I could immediately ride and turn
in the alley!
> Do you think turning the back forks over to get the pivot back to 67 degrees
> will make the bike any more stable?
I don't think so... It would also lower your base seat height.
>I do find that I am more steady with the seat back more vertical. When I lay
>it back to be more comfortable I am less stable.
It now seems to me to be the most important aspect; sitting up raises the
center of mass, as did your fork reversal. The steer feel is a little different
when reclined but not too much. I do find that when I switch to hand control I
cannot recline; the body motion is exactly opposite that of leg control. The
pencil vs. broom stick balance analogy made earlier is very apt.
>I started with a sling seat but found I needed lumbar support. I made a curved
>plywood seat back that fits over the sling.
I really like the curved, perforated plastic seats some of the bikes have. It
could be done with 1/4" ply too.
>Thank you for sharing your python with all of us.
Amen
>I have had such a good time dreaming, building, and now almost riding this
>unique bike. I feel like a boy again even though I'll soom celibrate my 63rd
>birthday.
I hope I still have knees in 20 years! Of course they might all be artificial
soon.
Ray
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