John's Innovations
XEVON - NOW FOR SALE! - built in ChroMoly tube by Paul Sims of Greenspeed fame. This FWD bent separates with S&S couplings for portability.
The day has come......xevon is to be sold. For photos circa 2004, see:
http://www.greenspeed.com.au/australia/paul/xevon.html
Price: $6000 negotiable
XYDIGO: A future sports tourer with fairings for weather protection and aero advantage. The mid panel ahead of the rider would be 'elastic' and fully removable. This trike will have the potential to pack-down for serious world touring or simple transportability.
Watch this space for updates!!!
Alterra X2/X3
I am designing a rear suspended SWB, FWD bent with 451 wheels. It would convert by changing seating styles with the choice of mid or forward pedaling. The option of three wheels would give those with balance difficulties greater freedom.
Watch this space for updates!!!
Row Bike
While strolling along Elwood Beach foreshore in 1983, I watched with great interest the approach of an unusual bike so I signalled for the rider to slow down as he neared. This was to be the first time I met Bill Fraser the creator of the "Fraser Robike". After a short talk about the design process that led Bill to building the Robike he offered a test ride. Initially l felt unstable and after 100m or so, I stopped and paused while looking back at Bill. I realised that if I relaxed and put aside my fears, l stood a chance of staying upright. It was then that I set off on my second attempt at "rowing" the bike and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Bill noticed my responses and invited me to visit his Gymnasium in Mentone where he built trampolines and his new Robike. Bill offered to build one for me. However, as a young Architect at the time, the cost was almost three times my weekly wage so I turned down Bill�s offer. As the years rolled on I lost contact with Bill, but always held an interest for his bike. In 2003 I spotted a machine that recalled the Robike experience of 1983; the rider and I agreed that it was in fact another of Bill Fraser�s Robikes. In early 2004, I met a bike collector who was recently offered two Robikes; he bought one and plans to restore his to add to his permanent collection.
On a recent �Be Spontaneous� ride along the Warburton Rail Trail with a group of HPV riders, we met Les and Dot H. of Healsville who informed us that they had known Bill Fraser, and that they were his �test pilots� in the very early 1980�s, testing various versions that included a side-by-side tandem which they rode through Melbourne City streets. When I heard they owned one of the Robikes, I asked if I could purchase the bike. Les said that I could have the bike. Dot and Les later told me that Bill had requested they not sell the bike, but instead return it to him. Bill passed away some time ago so I am honoured to be the custodian of a Fraser Robike.
Photos by Ludo S. Last photo: Renild S trying the Robike.