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28 August, 2011

Voltra Electric Motorcycle Concept



Ironically, one of the features designers of electric motorcycles seem to have the hardest time getting away from is the gas tank. My hunch as to why is a motorcycle just looses too much of it’s identity as soon as you take away the tank. Eventually our minds may learn to accept the tanks absence. Until then Dan Anderson‘s Voltra electric motorcycle concept, with it’s trellis frame forming the skeleton of a gas tank lets our minds wander just far enough to be comfortable with the no tank look.
Suspended on the end of the vestigial tank structure is a cafe racer inspired seat and tail section hinting at Dan’s inspiration for the bike. This 4th year University of Western Sydney Industrial Design student has a deep rooted respect for the culture of ICE motorcycles and their design. His father Chris successfully raced Norton Manx in a classic race series in Australia in the late 80’s and early 90’s and currently owns a Commando and a few Ducati’s. He was Australian champion 3 times and state champion 6 or 7 times. Dan’s personal bike is a Ducati Pantah 600 that he restored himself.
The striking aesthetics of the Voltra bike speak for itself.  Combine the visual presentation with cool features like a removable instrument cluster that doubles as a key and records data for review after the ride and it would have the most vain of squids jumping at the chance to add it to their garage furnishings. However, the more you dig into the design the more you realize the beauty is more than skin deep.
Earlier this year MotoCzysz unveiled an equally stunning carbon fiber framed E1PC that has the batteries attached to the side of the frame in 10 modular packs. Dan took a quite a different approach. What appear to be side panels on the Voltra are actually part of the carbon fibre monocoque frame. It is designed as a load bearing exoskeleton that has a hollow cavity inside to hold the batteries.
The AC induction electric motor resides in a cast housing that doubles as a pivot for the trellis swing arm. This design not only makes for a rigid connection between swingarm and frame, it provides a consistent chain tension through the travel of the rear swing arm.
The motor and lithium ion batteries are directed by a programmable control unit. The design translates to a 441 lb machine with 129 Nm of torque and a top speed of 124 mph. All very realistic specs based on today’s technology, a further testament to Dan’s thorough research. As with all electric vehicle designs weight and energy density of batteries will come down and specs will only get better.
Be sure to have a look at the gallery below as there is a lot more information in the sketches and renderings. He includes ergonomics analysis for average, large and short riders, analysis of stressed members of the construction and a view of how the motor is fitted inside the swingarm pivot.
Dan told me I have the most information of any site on the net so let me know if I missed any information contained in the pics. I’ll also mention Dan is in his fourth year and looking for a motorcycle company to begin his career with and he is open to any form of propulsion. Someone might want to snatch him up before he gets together with Tom Miceli and Tony Helmholdt and creates more competition in the market.

31 December, 2010

Yamaha SZ-R


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Overview of Yamaha SZ-R

Yamaha wants to achieve its target of capturing 10% market share in the coming years by riding on volumes. The Japanese bike maker has been successful in capturing the imagination of the youth by producing performance oriented bikes likes the R15 and FZ series. The firm launched new models under SZ series that excited the masses who are looking for a reliable commuter bike. The models are:
- Yamaha SZ
- Yamaha SZ-X

Now, Yamaha India has took a step further with the launch of Yamaha SZ-R. It is a sportier version of Yamaha SZ-X and comes with new features and shades. The much needed addition is front disc brake which enhances the braking power for more safety.

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Fast Facts About Yamaha SZ-R

- Powered by same 153cc engine that powers SZ and SZ-X
- Generates maximum power of 12 Bhp with maximum torque of 12.8 Nm
- Ex-Showroom Delhi price is Rs. 55,000
- Gets front disc brake, tachometer and has tank protector
- Gets clear lens flasher, colored handle grip end ba
- Features painted muffler end caps along with special graphics
- Available in 3 shades: Quality Black, Quality Red and Quality Blue.


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Engine of Yamaha SZ-R

Yamaha SZ-R is aimed to deliver power with comfort and might sport the 153cc engine from the FZ range. Previously it was expected Yamaha SZ-R will feature the 125cc engine from the Gladiator series but Obviously seeking buyers who are looking for more out of their commuter bikes Yamaha India decided to plonk the 153cc engine from FZ Series. So what they get is more power, comfort and styling. The engine of Yamaha SZ-R generates maximum power of 12 Bhp at 7500 rpm with maximum torque of 12.8 Nm at 4500 rpm.

Expected Fuel Economy of Yamaha SZ-R

It is expected that Yamaha SZ-R will return mileage of around 60-70 kmpl in mixed driving conditions.


Price of Yamaha SZ-R

Yamaha SZ-R is Rs. 3000 costlier that the simple SZ-X, Yamaha India has priced the Yamaha SZ-R at Rs. 63,000 (On-road). The ex-showroom Delhi price of Yamaha SZ-R is Rs. 55,000.

Shades Available in Yamaha SZ-R

Yamaha SZ-R is available in 3 shades - Quality Black, Quality Red and Quality Blue.

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VEHICLE SUMMARY

Name:SZ-R
Type:Commuter

VERDICT

FORReasonably Priced
Looks & Style
153cc engine
AGAINSTAnalogue Intsrument Cluster

OUR RATINGS

Appearance:
* * *
Comfort:
* * *
Features:
* * *
Performance:
* * *
Value for money:
* * * *

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS

Displacement:153cc
Engine:Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC
Maximum Power:12 Bhp @ 7500 rpm
Maximum Torque:12.8 Nm @ 4500 rpm
Gears:5 Manual
Clutch:Wet Type
Chassis Type:NA
Cooling Type:Air Cooling

DIMENSIONS

Length:2050.00 mm
Width:730.00 mm
Height:1100.00 mm

OTHER SPECIFICATIONS

Fuel Tank:14.00 ltrs
Wheelbase:1320.00 mm
Wheel Type:Alloys
Wheel Size:17″ alloy wheels - 100/90 mm
Tubeless:No
Colors:Quality Black, Quality Red and Quality Blue.

ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY

Suspension(Front):Telescopic Hydraulic
Suspension(Rear):Hydraulic Shock Absorber
Brakes:Disc
Brakes(Rear):Drum
Stand Alarm:No

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE

Fuel Guage:Analogue
Self Start:Yes
Tacho Meter:Analogue
Trip Meter:None
Alloys:Yes
Speedometer:Analogue
Passenger Footrest:
Passenger Backrest:No
Step-up Seat:No
Pass-light:Yes
Low Fuel Indicator:Yes
Low Oil Indicator:No
Low Battery Indicator:No
High Oil Temp. Indicator:No
Choked Air Filter Indicator:No
Yamaha SZ-R

18 December, 2010

Tron Lightcycle : The Future Vehicle


As Ducati gets ready to unveil its 2011 line-up in Milan tomorrow, there’s one bike we are more than certain won’t make the showcase: the Ducati Tron Lightcycle. While Ducati is expected to make a cameo-appearance in the new Tron Legacy movie, we don’t think the Bologna-based company’s product placement will go quite as far as this Ducati fan’s imagination. One of the better photoshops we’ve seen in a while, the oil filter protruding from the bottom of the bike makes us squirm with delight

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14 December, 2010

Zero MX : Zero Motorcycles

high res zero motorcycle image


Once you’re in the air, it’s all about the landing.
The Zero MX takes our revolutionary electric motorcycle technology to the track. Incredibly tough and lightweight, the Zero MX uses our newly developed suspension system to absorb aggressive terrain and give you an edge. Combined with our state-of-the-art Z-Force™ technology and ultra-light frame design, the Zero MX is agile and fast where it counts.
By developing a custom suspension system we have made the Zero MX highly responsive while maintaining an industry leading power-to-weight ratio. During aggressive riding the advanced suspension system and alloy wheels take the hits while smoothly maintaining control. Intensity combines with silence to open up a new world of riding possibilities.

Frame – Sculpted Aircraft Grade Aluminum Means Lighter, Stronger, and Faster
At the core of the Zero MX lies the ultimate dirt bike frame that we’ve engineered from the ground up and hand crafted using aircraft grade aluminum. The resulting combination of lower weight and higher strength means more responsiveness. In the turns and off the line this translates into greater acceleration. To make the frame even more durable each one is shot-peened and anodized.
  • Hydroformed top tube for increased strength & reduced weight
  • Massive swingarm for increased strength & torsional rigidity (better cornering and tracking)
  • Large cylindrical swingarm cross tube for increased stiffness & suspension response
  • Thru-axle rear hub for exponentially increased strength & rigidity
  • Entire frame is shot-peened and anodized for resistance to corrosion and abrasion
  • Organic frame gusseting for increased strength & smoother body lines
  • Bodywork is highlighted with new color graphics
Zero MX Electric Motorcycle Frame

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Motor and Energy– High Torque and Acceleration
Fueled by Zero Motorcycles’ proprietary lithium ion power pack, the Zero MX delivers more torque than any other motorcycle in its class. This is made possible by our power pack’s ability efficiently dump an incredibly high amount of power as soon as you punch the throttle. Using an advanced monitoring system, each cell in the power pack is individually controlled during charge and discharge. The charger integrates into this system and uses a specially developed charge profile to optimize the power pack’s recharge time.
Think of it this way, fuel systems are to gas motorcycles what electrical systems are to electrical motorcycles. Where others use a small carburetor and fuel pump, we use a highly tuned fuel injection system. We’ve found a way of rapidly flowing more energy out of our power pack than any of our competitors. This means more acceleration and more fun.
Zero MX Electric Motorcycle Power Pack and Frame

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Drivetrain – Larger Chain and Sprockets for Increased Durability & Longer Life
To accommodate the Zero MX’s increased traction and ability to accelerate in the dirt we use a hardened steel 420 chain and direct drive gearing. The result is a stronger and more durable drivetrain that puts the power from the throttle directly into the dirt.
  • Hardened steel 420 Chain
  • Front & rear accompanying 420 Sprockets
  • Larger rear sprocket mounting/bolt pattern for increased durability and better management of high torque acceleration
Zero MX Electric Motorcycle Drivetrain

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Handling – Faster Turns and Bigger Berms
We want you to be able to take full advantage of the rapid acceleration the Zero MX has to offer. To do this we’ve taken our riders’ handling wish list and built in the features. The result, this electric dirt bike gives you the control you need to for the acceleration you want.
  • Direct mount (to fork crown) double clam stem for increased rigidity and control
  • Increased rise and reduced reach stem for better control & stability
  • Wider, taller, and stronger full sized dirt bike handlebar
  • Higher strength hardened race headset for longer life & smoother turning
Zero MX Electric Motorcycle Rear Swing Arm

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Brakes – Stopping on a Dime in the Dirt
Because you’ll be going faster and harder on our electric dirt bike we’ve added a few things to help slow you down. The 2010 Zero MX electric motorcycle features beefier brakes all around.
  • 4 piston calipers front and rear
  • 9” (224 mm) rotor in front and rear
  • Increased reservoir size for more responsive braking under high strain
Zero MX Electric Motorcycle Front Brake

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Instrument Panel & System Upgrades – Quick Look & Easy Access
A quick look tells you everything you need to know on the Zero MX. We’ve taken all the important dials and switches and securely located them in a new instrument panel. Accompanying this, is a newer wiring system for increased safety and electrical system longevity. With a bike this desirable, you’ll also be excited to know that this motorcycle comes with a keyed ignition.
  • Easy access to gauges and switches – ‘quick look’ clustered instrumentation
  • “Armed” light for increased awareness & safety
  • Key switch with solenoid for added safety, peace of mind, security and ease of use
  • Flush mounted rockers switches for speed settings (easy/sport and 30/50mph)
  • Integrated battery power connector for ease of use and durability
  • Integrated battery fuse for added safety in handling and adverse circumstances
Zero MX Electric Motorcycle Top View

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Wheels and Tires- Hook Up on Technical Tracks
The Zero MX custom alloy wheels are designed to reduce unsprung weight while not comprising on strength. During acceleration instant torque is efficiently channeled into the dirt through a beefy rear tire and directed using an equally aggressive front.
  • Tall knobbed and grippy full size rear tire - 17X3.5
  • Large lugged high strength rear rim 17 x 2.5”
  • Thicker 32h 12g spokes
  • Custom oversized & reinforced hub
  • 1.6x19 front wheel
  • Aggressive front tire 19x3.0

Zero MX Electric Motorcycle Rear Tire

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Suspension - Designed for the Track
The Zero MX uses our newly developed suspension system to absorb aggressive terrain and accommodate larger riders. Taking advantage of the motorcycle’s low weight, the inverted front fork is one of the beefiest, lightest and most responsive in the industry. Riders can quickly dial it in using the externally adjustable compression and rebound damping. On the rear, our rigid double diamond swing arm keeps the wheel planted using a newly developed custom rear shock with a fully adjustable spring preload and easily tuned damping.
  • Zero designed lightweight front end
  • Inverted front fork to reduce unsprung weight (48 mm fork leg)
  • Fully adjustable rebound and compression damping on the front
  • Custom rear shock with adjustable spring preload and damping
  • Unique double diamond aircraft grade aluminum rear swingarm for reduced weight and increased torsional rigidity
Zero MX Electric Motorcycle front fork

Extreme Package – Adding more power to already high performance We offer an ‘extreme package’ for those wanting to ride even harder and faster. The upgrades include a stronger motor and a stronger/smoother front fork.
Higher Power Motor – More Acceleration & Speed
This is your motor if you’re looking to leverage all the latest Zero MX features and push your motorcycle (or yourself) to the limit. It offers more torque and increased acceleration.
  • Efficient German built high torque/ high power perm motor
  • 10% more power than the stock motor for greater acceleration
  • Greater acceleration
  • Lighter weight and more compact
  • Higher efficiency
Stronger & Smoother Fork – Internals are Custom Made Specifically for the Zero MX
For more aggressive riders we’re offering a new stronger and smoother front fork that’s fully adjustable. Using an inverted design this specially developed fork takes the pounding of the track and hides it away in custom designed springs, valves, and damping.
  • Additional inch of travel on the front
  • Inverted design for rigidity & increased responsiveness
  • Designed for more aggressive riding
  • Custom valved & sprung
high res zero motorcycle image

Motor
Type Brushed permanent magnet electric
Torque 50 ft-lbs (67.7 Nm)
Peak horsepower 23 horsepower
Peak electrical input 17,400 watts
Power System
Type Patent-pending lithium ion array
Capacity 2 kWh (58volts @ 35Ah)
Range Up to 2 hours or 40 miles (64 km)*
Recharge time Less than 2 hours
Input Standard 110V or 220V
Drive Train
Transmission Clutchless one speed
Drive system 12T / 73T, 420 Chain
Chassis / Suspension / Brakes
Front suspension travel 8 inches (203.2 mm)
Rear suspension travel 8.5 inches (215.9 mm)
Front brakes 4 Piston hydraulic, stainless rotor, hand actuated
Rear brakes 4 piston hydraulic, stainless rotor, hand actuated
Front tire 19 x 3.0 inches
Rear tire 17 x 3.5 inches
Dimensions
Wheel base 54.5 inches (138.4 cm)
Seat height 34.3 inches (87.1 cm)
Rake 24 degrees
Weight
Frame 13 pounds (5.9 kg)
Total weight without Power Pack 126 pounds (57.2 kg)
Power pack 46 pounds (20.9 kg)
Curb weight 172 pounds (78.0 kg)
Economy
Typical cost to recharge Less than $.01 per mile or kilometer

Zero MX