The Kneeslider

Doers Builders and Positive People

Ultralight Flying Scooter

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You, too, can "slip the surly bonds of earth" with this Honda Ruckus scooter and powered paraglider combination. The Ultralight Flying Scooter folks will sell you this add on kit for your 2006 Honda Ruckus giving it the ability to fly. I actually came across this last year but the web site had no actual photos or video showing it in the air so I was a little reluctant to … [Read more...]

Volkswagen GX3 at LA Auto Show

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Here's another 3 wheeler, there seem to be so many these days. This concept, shown at the LA Auto Show and built by Volkswagen, is powered by a 1.6 liter 125hp 4 cylinder engine. 0 to 62.5mph (100kmh) is in 5.7 seconds and is said to pull 1.25 lateral g's! Very nice. They say a production version could be on the market soon, depending on feedback. Projected price is under … [Read more...]

The Kneeslider’s 2006 Performance tip

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Lose weight. One of the most popular New Year's resolutions is also one of the best low cost methods of boosting the performance of your motorcycle. Cars weigh in anywhere from maybe 3000 to 5000 pounds or more and power to weight ratios need a big change from either power or weight to make much difference. Looking at the average car, you don't know where to start if you really … [Read more...]

Hybrid Motorcycles are not necessary – part 2

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So, Yamaha wants a hybrid motorcycle before the end of the decade. Can someone explain why? When Yamaha president Takashi Kajikawa said that was one of his goals for the company, it had me scratching my head. A couple months ago I said there was no need for hybrid motorcycles (right before the Gen-Ryu appeared) and I'll say it again. Motorcycles already get great mileage and … [Read more...]

Vespa exploded view

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Cutaway drawings and exploded views are a neat way to see how mechanical things go together but what if you did it with the real thing? There was an art exhibit in Turin where the artist took three Vespa scooters, left one intact, removed the outer panels on the next and completely disassembled the third. It was suspended with all of the parts in proper relationship, just like … [Read more...]

Honda Innovation in Motorcycles – no surprise

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Have you seen ASIMO? Honda's humanoid robot is constantly improving and they just came out with an upgrade that makes the little guy oh so helpful. He can perform the duties of receptionist, museum guide and deliver your coffee or various office supplies. Helpful, cute and almost a little, hmm..., what's the word I'm looking for, a little creepy. I'm not sure we're ready for an … [Read more...]