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I have spent some time building flevo racers, and alternate designs based on the flevoracer. I have a design that allows the bike to convert from flevo recumbent position to a 'standup' regular-style bike, and also have one with a much easier scheme for separation of front and rear parts of the bike. Much easier for storage in the trunk of a car for example.
Instead of the standard rubber diabolo used on the steering I have tried a regular metal spring, a metal spring with a rubber insert down its center, two rubber dampers mounted so-that they are in compression instead of sheer when the steering is turned, and other variations. The simple rubber diabolo used as shown in the initial flevoracer designs is hard to beat. It is very simple and accomplishes its task for years without failure.
However in my latest design, which has a different method for the front of the bike to be disconnected from the rear of the bike, I found it easy to simply use a rubber block positioned so-that it stays in compression. The block can be of many different densities with very little difference in performance, as the purpose of the diabolo is really only to help maneuver the bike when you are not driving it. It does not effect steering when underway very strongly, but without one present the bike is very difficult to guide while walking alongside pushing it.
-----Original Message-----
From: Flevofan@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Flevofan@yahoogroups.com]On Behalf Of Tim Karle
Sent: Sunday, August 03, 2008 7:02 PM
To: Flevofan@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Flevofan] wanting to build 20/20Hi all,
New to the group but not to building bents. I've always wanted to try
a Flevo 20/20 and I've got enough of the right parts and materials to
start one. I've spent this week doing the research, especially your
homebuilt ones. Great builds, all of them. I spent this afternoon
searching and reading all the tech oriented threads. I like the idea
of stretching the wheelbase a few inches toward the rear. Also like
the idea of making the bike adjustable - raising and lowering the rear
end slightly to get optimum handling. I'd be cool to come up with a
way to move a lever on the handlebar and adjust on the fly.
Everything I've read seems pretty clear but have just one question.
Has anyone found an alternative to the 'diabolo'?
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