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Today we experienced our first taste of high speeds in the desert, with a top recorded speed of 98.3 mph. A slow start to the day was followed by a steady wind increase an average of between 25 and 30 mph, with gusts of 35 in the afternoon. Early runs were encouraging, with good acceleration and only a little vibration from the rough 'Playa' surface. However, a 'blow out' to the left rear soon called a halt after only a few runs.....
The cause of the flat tyre was a very sharp stone that had been picked up by the soft rubber and thrown into the fairing. The velocity at which the stone hit the fairing bulkhed was enough to pierce the carbon/nomex skin and lodged the stone half burried in the bulkhead. Due to the fine tollerances around the wheel, the stone then wore a groove into the new tyre, which after only a fw seconds wore through and burst the tyre. A rapid tyre change solved the problem and we were back up and running in no time. In total we clocked about 12 runs, all in the 90's, which gave a valuable first insight into what is required to beat the 116 record in the desert. Due to the poor traction of the dirt surface, (compared to the tarmac, which the craft is set up for) we are experiencing a lot more sideslip and hence a lot more drag. To counter the side slip, we are having to use a lot more aerodynamic downforce than normal, which in turn causes more drag. The simple solution to this is more weight (extra lead) inserted into the fusalage. This, combined with a couple of other minor alterations, should put us in very good shape for record speeds. Changing from a smooth tarmac surface to the desert, is a bit like trying to drive an F1 car on a rally car track, so there were always are going to be some neccessary changes, but luckily it appears these are all relatively minor. Our sincere thanks to all the guys at Nalsa and the North American Buggy Expo, who are currently holding their annual event at Ivanpah. Their help, support and encouragment has been invaluable. Pictures and video to follow shortly, check back soon! |
