Larry;
The Locost Lotus Replica guys, and even Caterham themselves turn the 'blade
engine so that the exhaust pipes face the left side of the car (drivers side
in US). That points the driveshaft and front sprocket to the rear. They
fabricate a flange, and hook it to a driveshaft. Nice thing about the bike
engines is engine and trans weighs in at about 150 lbs total! Quaife makes a
reverser-expensive though.
See:
http://biketransplant.tripod.com/
http://users.netmatters.co.uk/nickaddison/FireBlade.html
http://www.stuart-taylor.co.uk/Blade_build/blade-2-3.htm
I understand that in England, there is a company (Dax Rush) that is putting a
turbocharged Suzuki Hayabusa engine in their 1200 lb. car (supposed to get
350 hp!)
I have spoken to a few Locost listers that say the Locost with a bike engine
is like driving a light switch (all on or all off) and takes some getting
used to.
It certainly would be an interesting project for a SpitBlade. I bet it would
suprise a few Miata owners!!
Joe Garrison
Edmond, OK
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