The tripod is a fine and stable construct for photography and navigation, but how well will it work for motorcycles? We're not sure, but one student at California's Art Center Pasadena is challenging singletrack motorcycles and typical three-wheelers with an anthropomorphic, Yamaha-branded three wheeler concept called the Deus Ex Machina. The forward-looking personal conveyance is a mobile exoskeleton propelled by in-wheel electric motors—or, more succinctly, a trike you can wear.
You don't ride standing up. It's only in standing position when you're getting in/out. The front wheels pitch forward, while the back wheel extends back when you're riding, putting the rider nearly parallel to the ground. It's not meant for sidewalks like Segways either. This would be a zero-emissions speed demon, if the concept turns out like it should, mind you. Not very fast on top speed but 0-60 in three seconds? Also, the helmet is pneumatically attached, should you go flying off in an accident, I'm sure the helmet would be leaving with you. More at Gizmodo...
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