It has taken more than 6 months of work and research with the help of engineers Francesc Romani and Blackie Holden to find the configuration that Dougie Lampkin needs to achieve his next great record: to be for more than 2 hours on a wheelie along the more than 70 kilometers that make up the Isle of Man TT course.
A configuration has been sought that provides comfort and counteracts the intrinsic particularities of a trial bike in the face of this very specific record, which takes place on open roads and with great slopes.
Lampkin is worried about the wind more than the weather, as the crosswind can hinder and make the British driver uncomfortable. In any case, the challenge will be broadcast on September 24 through Red Bull TV.
WHAT MODIFICATIONS DOES DOUGIE LAMPKIN’S VERTIGO RECEIVE?
Fuel Tank Capacity
The Vertigo’s 2.7-litre tank is not enough for the almost 70-kilometre route. Consequently, a second tank has been added located in the center of the bike, where the tank mouth is also located on the standard motorcycle. It is made of carbon fibre and takes into account the changes in stability that will occur as the fuel is consumed.
This reservoir will also serve to help Lampkin stabilize the bike with his legs.
Footpegs and brake on the rear wheel axle
The position of the rear footpegs is surprising, as they have been located on the axle of the rear wheel and are noticeably wider than the original ones.
The rear brake has also been modified, whose master cylinder and pedal have been moved to the rear axle, replacing the original pump with another made of aluminum and CNC brand. The brake has two pistons, one is operated by the foot pedal and the other, completely independent, is operated by a knob that has been added on the right side of the handle.
This solution has been designed for moments of fatigue for the rider, who can continue to apply the brake with one part or another of the body.
Electric motor on the front wheel
The front wheel has to be in motion even though it’s going to be in the air all the time. The gyroscopic effect of this will help to maintain balance throughout the journey, and for this purpose a 36-volt electric motor has been inserted.
A standalone battery was first considered, but then it has been decided to take the current directly from the alternator of the Vertigo. Lampkin will be able to change the rotation speed of the wheel, these changes will help him to have to change the position of the body and be able to better withstand the fatigue that this position entails. Dougie will be in control of the front wheel motor by a cable attached to his chest.
Front Brake Suppression
It is completely suppressed because it is not necessary. The handlebar lever engages the rear brake.
Modification of the front fork
The interior of the Vertigo’s stock fork has been removed because it will not be used. In order to lighten the front end, a much lighter structure has been fitted.
Rear suspension
It is shorter and stiffer than the standard one to give stability to the rear axle.
Gearbox
Practically the entire route will be done at a single speed but it was necessary to have some more development for some area of the circuit. Special care has been taken with the sixth gear which will withstand most of the work and also ensure its correct lubrication.
