Thursday, June 28, 2007

First ride on the Rampant!

Yesterday, Jay and myself headed on over to Trident Sports in North Vancouver to build up the prototype rampant frame that had just been delivered.

Since it is a first prototype, we went over it with a fine toothpick looking for slight build and design errors, and looking for ways to improve it the whole way through the build and initial ride. I can then report back to the factory about the quality of built as well as make changes and improvements to my designs.

We started off by stripping the frame right down and removing the internal grease injection axles and checking fit and quality (They look like pieces of jewelry). Then the build began, and the bike came together nicely without any major issues.

After making some final tweaks and adjustments to the gears and brakes, she was ready to rip!

Hahaha this bike was so much fun. It is incredibly tight and nimble... the closest thing to a full suspension 26" wheeled BMX I have ever come across. Even with the heavy build kit and fat tires (2.5 at back 2.7 up front, expect more like 2.3 dirt tires) it accelerated like a bullet!

The suspension setup on this bike is important to get the most from the linkage and to suit the intended application of 4X racing. It should run with very little sag (around 10%), as this bike is designed to be pedalled hard! Essentially, the suspension will only be noticeable when you need it to cushion a harsh landing or case and get a bit more traction while railing round a corner.










This bike is made for one thing... to go FAST and SMOOTH!