Trike top

(Scratching head!)

I think the issue with the collapsing roof will be the first on the agenda.

 

Trike cover

Nice Ed. I will have one to show off this winter to keep the wind chill
off. By the way, don't pay any attention to Yoda. The Phoenix SUN got
to him.

 

Let it rain, let it rain, let it rain!

Found this pic last night and wanted to share. The idea was not so much a top for touring, but rather a trike held umbrella. If it really started raining, this could be put up so that it would be more of a comfortable shelter.

I took 2 Pony spring clamps with a hole drilled in the jaws so that they could be attached to the bottle cage braze-ons (1 hole for a 5mm screw, and a larger hole on the other jaw for an allen wrench to go thru to the attachment screw). The closed umbrella could be clamped there, ready for use. Didn't take up pannier storage space; of course, a bottle storage space was relinquished (I have another one forward). The clamps are strong enough to hold the umbrella for sure, but the braze-ons glued in the moulded plastic seat became loose, so I aborted this set-up (and reglued the braze-ons).

Although I never tried this, I did think about it: Use the vertically positioned bottle cage with an insert that would be holding the umbrella. The twisting of the umbrella always had me concerned, much like it might be if an Alligator was doing a death roll, so I stumbled across this umbrella with an offset pole. Ya gotta love this................

http://lifehacker.com/5611327/senz-storm-umbrella-is-wind+proof-to-70-miles-per-hour

There are square shapes out there but it will be awhile before the cycling marketplace sparks the demand for an affordable, wind resistant, easy-to-mount 'bikebrella'. Suggestion: Develop a strong universal holder so your umbrella could be used as normal.

 

Let me think...........

When I saw your post here, I immediately had this image: On your 'ride', a lightweight but sufficiently strong flat-pattern frame in the silhouette of a store-type mannequins upper torso, maybe with some spring loading so the cover is tight then properly suspended overhead like a top such that your rain jacket was stretched over this for that unique but functional look. The arms flopping over the sides might even be made to give a waving motion as you rode!

 

I've got a unique idea, why not wear a HAT!!!

Seriously, I made a visor extension for my helmet and it works GREAT!!!

 

Da!

I've got a unique idea, why not wear a TEE!!!

 

Got it!

I'm beginning to understand why in some animal species, mothers eat their young! Back on subject please, or start a thread on wardrobe selection!

This 69 year old wants to enjoy more rides in all weather conditions, not to mention extend the opportunities to take pictures and videos!

 

OK at 30+MPH

With a few subtle tweaks on the support rods, the resultant upward tension shows signs of improving roof panel stability.

Today was the second day I transported the trike on its car carrier for a 25 mile car road trip without any noticeable issues. The roof panel flapped pretty violently at times during road speeds of 45-55MPH and some lateral wind gusts estimated to be in the 30-35MPH range provided yet an additional 'shake test'.

Having this installed for only a few days and riding for distances of 11, 44 & 27 miles in 5-days, I'd say that for average touring on a recumbent trike, this cheapo hood has potential. During todays 27 mile ride in mid day sun & a 75 degree temp wearing a dark tee shirt, I hardly broke a sweat.

Within the next week I should be able to develop some ideas I have for a neat quick release hookup for the front lines.

 

Oh and I have an idea put flags on the back of you top's poles. When I had a canopy for my EZ 3 SX when I had it that's what I did. I had a U.S car flag on one side and of course O.S.U on the other side. You can either zip tie it to the poles or take double stick tape and use it there.

 

Have you all also check out the Velotop that thing is like 650 by itself. That would be great. Spending like 40 woud better. Just hope they take money orders.

 

More madness!

I think it's time for a simple loop clip on the roof lines and a hook on the trike frame. Oh.........., and a handle on the roof line end on which to hold during the on & off procedures!

Enjoy the .................., 'Slingshot hood'!

 

Simplified

A few refinements.