This is a read-only archive of the old Madabout Kitcars forum. New posts and replies are no longer possible, but every thread is still here to browse and read.
Cycle cars fascinate me. When I was about six years old I had a ride in a Morgan Barrelback that must have stuck with me.
Recently, I was given the opportunity to purchase a shaft drive Honda V-Twin
and I'm considering building a BRA style replica.
I've been all over that build thread before. Thanks guy's.
Here in the USA, 2CV's are hard to find. I'll thinking Honda V-Twin or Harley power. Preferably mated to a VW or Miata gearbox.
Also considering a Fiero or Chevette front suspension. The closest builds that I can find are the old BRA CX3 (Honda) or the JVA with a Harley. Tons of research to do. There was a Pembleton in Daytona owned to a fellow that I spoke to. He indicated that he was afraid to take it in the freeway. I believe he recently sold it. A little more Oomph for me will require a more powerful engine and perhaps a slightly longer wheelbase and front track.
I was alerted to that possibility, however, Penguin mentioned to me in my last e-mail that they were looking for an investor. We'll see.
There is a complete unassembled kit in Texas and I may have a go look soon. I believe only one of maybe two in the USA.
I would go with the Buckland, at the right price and if you can find a engine.
But the BRA3cx plans would be a good start too. I wouldn't fancy taking any small 3 wheelers on a busy freeway, some low kit cars 7ish can be scary in any British town.
Good luck
Engine & gearbox not a problem. The 1.6 Kent engine was used in many TVR's. Decked, can easily be a 1.3 if desired. I have access to many of these. If I do have to do a scratch build, the bevelbox is the only issue right now.
You could modify a Ford Sierra diff. The Buckland has a chain drive from the diff to the rear wheel. Or use the bevel drive from a shaft drive motor bike. There was a great Steampunk trike in either '100% Bike' or its sister 'Trike' a while back. That had a Virago V twin in line, like in the bike and shaft drive to the rear wheel. That setup in a BRA would look great.
You could modify a Ford Sierra diff. The Buckland has a chain drive from the diff to the rear wheel. Or use the bevel drive from a shaft drive motor bike. There was a great Steampunk trike in either '100% Bike' or its sister 'Trike' a while back. That had a Virago V twin in line, like in the bike and shaft drive to the rear wheel. That setup in a BRA would look great.
Yes, thinking of a Guzzi or Goldwing rear & diff. With the 4 speed transmission + reverse. Only need to fabricate a driveshaft and appropriate carrier bearings.
