In our quest for new challenges and even higher speeds, CalHPV has taken on a new project estimated to break Mach 0.1. This new project has taken the form of a back-to-back recumbent style tandem (two-person) bike, the Bearacuda.
By arranging the riders in a back-to-back fashion, we can keep the bike as low as a single rider and make it only 40% longer, thereby reducing both total aerodynamic drag and cross-wind interference to a minimum. We are keeping the riders in a recumbent position in order to maximize their output. While aerodynamically efficient, this design adds a complexity of the riders pedaling on cranks located almost 9 feet apart. It would be possible to link them through some type of transmission, but this would add weight, complexity, and a loss of efficiency.
Instead, we have decided on a two-wheel drive system with each rider powering his/her respective wheel. All of this should combine to what (we hope) will be the ultimate in multi-human powered vehicles. After building and recording data (as well as winning races) with our Chrome-Moly Prototype, We built an integrated carbon fiber verson in the fall of '98 and the spring of '99. This bike dominated the ASME races in may 99 and 2000. In 2000 our bike placed first in every Tandem catagory.
For the 2000-2001 season or project has been to modify this bike to become the fastest tandem in history. Our trial date is tentatively set for October 2000. With the Help of the IHPVA (International Human Powered Vehicle Association) we will attempt to become the fastest collegiate team, fastest tandem, and if possible, the fasest Human Powered Vehicle.
2 Time Collegiate National Champions Overall, 1999-2000
2 Time Collegiate National Top Speed Champions, 1999-2000
2 Time Collegiate National Road Race Champions, 1999-2000