Metal Construction
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Metal Construction |
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What is more obvious for a
motorbike
riding "spanner" than sometime to deal with a motorbike model? So the 2001-model was a motorbike with sidecar in the scale ca. 1:4. For this at first an original motorbike was measured and the dimensions were calculated on the basis of the available wheels (160mm). The problem to find suitable wheels at this model didnīt exist because there was no other alternative; by using smaller wheels the model wouldnīt be to realize in this style. Moreover it was a lucky break that the small blue MÄRKLIN flanged wheel fits exact into the rim of the wheels (on the pictures good visible). The frame of a motorbike is a quite unshaped part to get stability in all directions. One aim was as possible to bend no parts of the construction kit. The same applies for the sidecar. On the one hand it should not look like a box; on the other hand as less as possible parts should to be bend or even to be cut. For an easy accu change moreover the complete bonnet should to be opened. Also to attend is the position of the sidecar wheel: In respect of the steering property it should be on the axis of the rear wheel; but because of the construction this was not possible. The more the wheel is displaced to the front the more the wheel is slided through the curves, which results into an increased tyre abrasion. Another object was the replication of a typical property of sidecar-motorbikes: the sidecar lift-off in right hand bends. Contrary to this was the large weight of the drive and the accumulator, which was to be placed into the sidecar. Therefore it has been constructed in "light-weight-build" using old Märklin aluminium parts and old plastic cladding panels from MEKANIK. However, the sidecar lift-off needs also an adequate speed which was realized by means of the gear reduction
At this model beside MÄRKLIN-, MECCANO- and MEKANIK-parts for the first time METALLUS U-section angle girders were used. This girders allow very solid constructions; also for truck models they are surely more qualified than angle girders (which also better corresponds to the originals). To make possible a non-destructive power transmission to the large rear wheel of the heavy model, a jerk reduction and a torque limitation was built into. Thatīs particular to recommend, if the model shall be controlled by children. For jerk reduction the drive was supported in miniatur rubber dampers (similar to the tractor). The torque limitation was realized by means of a 1 Ohm series resistor in the motor supply line, which allows a very soft starting.
Further features are a motorsound generator as well as front and rear lighting (on the pictures not yet to see); last with us motorbikes also during the day have to drive with switched on lights :-). And it works indeed: it is possible to lift the sidecar.
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