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Firstly, I did state I was not a biker - I am impressed always by those who
ride them - top fuel drag bikes being the most impressive to be close to,
but watching 220 at Maxton was something ........ I had swept the shut down
area and I knew where the rider was heading to slow down.
The 'taping of a rider' incident was indeed at a private meet.
Staying on at 240 plus is one thing but at 300 + the much greater forces
will surely be pulling the curved back of a rider all the time, trying to
get him from the seat?
Gary, given that there are wind tunnel tests for speed skiers and I have
seen stunt men showing the affect of standing in a hurricanes wind speed, I
would suggest that this could be the test method of choice - with the
person attached to a harness and safety rope system so we do not get salami
slices. You might see if the chute survives the deployment and the harness
to the person does not cause injuries.
The drag boat accidents I have seen on tape start by the craft getting out
of shape and then 'spitting out' the pilot. The pilot may gain height (and
therefore time) for the chute to deploy before hitting the water. But in
some the chute is good at slowing the skid across the surface as no height
is gained. If the person is already tumbling the chute could I guess get
wrapped up and be useless.
Joe - I did laugh when you mentioned F.R. - or were you being serious
.......... amongst these self proclaimed 'World' authorities on everything
LSR and its related topics (we have one such person in Britain too) there
might just be something of value to be learnt (and it isn't humility!, LOL)
Glen - I watched a Florida airboat in action on film yesterday and I guess
the 'swamp racers' might sanction the FR propster ....... with floats
added like FR's friend Art Arfons did with 'Cyclops'.
Malcolm Pittwood, Derby, England
ps Mike - good to know you are back on the list.
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