[python] Re: pix Columbus python coiled and uncoiled

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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