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Trike prototype #1 disassembly

December 11, 2025 — BarryK

The Meanderer trike project is actually prototype #2. The first one was completed, and was actually quite nice, except for the instability when cornering -- which made it unusable. I posted about prototype #1 here:

https://bkhome.org/nomad/solar-powered-recumbent-trike.html

img1

The problem was narrow wheel width, soft springs, and too much weight high up. It is not shown in the above photo, but I also installed a basket on the rear rack, with heavy camping gear.

Earlier, before installing the solar panel, cornering was OK. The front suspension springs are only 200 pounds per inch, which is very soft, but I tested sharp cornering and leaned into the corner, and was able to ride around corners without tipping over.

However, the solar panel and rear basket changed the situation dramatically. The high centre of gravity was too much for the soft springs; the outer spring, when cornering, basically collapsed, and body leaning was ineffective.

In summary, it would have been usable if luggage was all stored low, no solar panel, and stiffer springs. But, stability when cornering would still be a concern.

Prototype #2 is a leaning design, with rider control of how much to lean into a corner. This will keep the centre of gravity under control. Also, intend to keep the weight low; there will be luggage satchels, low down. If I do decide to put on a solar panel, will design it considerably lighter.

The situation with prototype #1 is that it lives in my apartment, and takes up a lot of room. So, the last few days have got stuck into pulling it apart, with a view to reuse some of the parts.

Here, the front wheels and seat have been removed, and the solar panel is being taken off:

img2

Next, motor and luggage bags removed:

img3

Rear basket and steering removed:

img4

The end result:

img5

Now back onto the Meanderer project, here are recent posts:

There will be a progress report soon.   

Tags: light