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This is it with
just the rear brakes, fenders, handle bars, and controls to build yet.
I spent much of the time developing the front steering system which pivots
on connecting arms, 2 on each side. This system does work but has limited
travel. I had an idea for another type that would allow more travel and
I could use the same front suspension, but decided I would use that on
a different model. To really appreciate this thing you have to kinda play
with it to see how it all works.
It took me some time to develop the method for building the wheels. I first used this system of building wheels on the Red Lady. I first make the rim by turning a chunk of aluminum on the lathe and drilling the holes for the spokes. Then I make the hub from aluminum usually with a brass bushing for the axle to turn in. Then I made a jig to hold the hub and the rim to lace the spokes in with stainless steel wire. The tires are made of rubber tubing sized just right then supper glued together.
The seat was an experiment with casting rubber. I made a clay model first then cast that with plaster. With the cast I poured a special rubber mix in, then after hardening I broke the plaster cast off.