Let's Talk Cyclecars

I think there are two approaches to the compressed air riddle. One approach, which I'd expect would be intuitive to most of us, you might call clockwork powered by an air spring: the energy source is the elastic compression of the air.

The other, which is less obvious but might have more potential, is more like a heat pump. The energy source is not the air itself but ambient heat in the surrounding atmosphere, radiant heat from the road, etc. The trick here would be not so much to carry the greatest practical mass of air at the highest pressure, but to keep the air as cold as possible, though at no extreme pressure; and to get it to absorb the greatest amount of heat as quickly as possible when required. The real action would happen in a combined expansion vessel and heat exchanger between the air tank and the engine.

 

A "brake" or "break" being a sturdy vehicle suitable for breaking-in draught horses.

 

Compressed air problem? Eat more beans

 

RE compressed air devices and vehicles, there were all kinds of small, air driven locomotives used in mines and other industries where fire burning locos, electric sparks and / or fumes were a problem and safety concern. I wouldn't be surprised at all to find out some were still in use today. Gary

 

...or Taco Bell

 

After reading a couple of mentions of Charron lately, here are some pics of my latest acqisition.

 

Gasballoon, it appears you got most of it. Good for you!! What year is it?

 

certainly pre- 1920. I am still researching
The engine came apart with patience, and is unworn inside!

 

Got to be one of my all time favourites. Reminds me of the patina on the Alfonso. Here are a few more that may have already been posted.

 

and a lovely 9hp riley.

 

The Alfonso seen many times. - damb near perfect.

 

I remember seeing this one years ago. I liked then,I like it now.

 

I know where a Hanomag Taxi is.......

 

It seems to me that I saw an Amilcar in this very drive for sale once.....

 

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... Bluto, in your garage?
Zoran

 

No with an old friend. There are more of those around than anyone would guess survived. Many times I've looked at little narrow garages under houses here an wondered "What was parked in that?" Having been here for many years I have seen wonderful things pulled out of those little garages.Oh how I enjoy the hunt and mystery of those tiny structures lock for so many years. We have a couple one-owner items parked and protected well after the owners passing. Sometimes even after their children have passes on. It is wonderful how things just get "Put Away"

 

One goatpower?

 

Oh ,I thought a goatkart was the same as a cyclecar?

 

No trouble finding fuel when you are on the road, it uses the original bio-fuels.

 

For sale on CL. Not quite a cyclekart. We don't get the good stuff here.

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/snw/5962225271.html

 

What no FEZ?


With the goat you must watch out for tail light

 

Parisian Jean - Pascal's Amilcar. The French and Belgians have an affinity for using the hoods of their cars as serving tables.

 

No headlamps but it does have two horns.