The Land Rover XR-3 Recumbent Bike, Commendation Prize winner in the 2009 Land Rover Bicycle Design Competition.
A selection of early sketch work. The concept can be clearly seen progressing from a larger, go-kart type downhill racer to a more elegant recumbent layout. The main revelation inspiring the change was the stressed carbon fibre monocoque concept.
The side view shows how the main feature lines of the main chassis correspond with the purposeful lines of modern Land Rovers.
This view shows the detail included in the front wheel mounts. These shapes are meant to echo the lights of the LRX concept car and add to the 'Land Rover identity'.
The drive belt mechanism is also clearly visible running down from the crank, round 2 sets of pulleys and under the vehicle towards the rear drive mechanism.
The 'Land Rover' name is embossed into the seat bolsters which are secured onto the main chassis. These are intended to share visual similarities with the door handles and roof racks found on Land Rovers such as the Discovery.
The handlebars are made from extruded aluminium and are attached to the front steering mechanism which pivots around the front wheel mounts.
The main chassis is constructed from carbon fibre and acts as a stressed load-bearing monocoque. All the other components are attached onto the chassis. This gives the whole vehicle excellent stiffness, rigidity and strength; perfect for tackling even the toughest of off-road challenges.
The seat is specifically designed to hold the user in place and is therefore quite a 'snug' fit
The rear swingarm is constructed from machined aluminium for lightness and stiffness.
It pivots about a point directly below the users' centre of mass and is suspended by a heavy duty shock absorber in order to soak up all manner of terrain.
The vehicle is displayed above in a variety of popular contemporary Land Rover colours
This image illustrates the relatively relaxed and stable driving position that the user adopts in using the XR-3.
The chassis curvature combines with its' angular, swept back shape to create a very purposeful stance.
This top view illustrates how the drive belt is routed by the belt pulleys so that it does not foul the rear tyre.
It also demonstrates the curvature of the main chassis and how the widest point corresponds with the users' hip point.
This view illustrates how the drive belt is routed by the belt pulleys so that it does not foul the rear tyre.
The molded rubber seat cushions were deliberately shaped in order to fit the natural curvature of the spine. This provides the optimum support for the user.
The seat back, bottom support and side bolsters are constructed from injection molded ABS plastic. This material is tough and strong and also allows a certain amount of flexibility, enhancing comfort.
The seat structure is designed to provide support for all of the bodys main areas in order to give the user all the support and security they need to tackle off-road tracks.
The top section headrest section also doubles as a mudguard and bolts straight onto the top of the main chassis 'blades'.
The aim of the seat design was to create a reassuring, safe and snug environment for the user in order to give them the confidence to push the vehicle to the limit.
Front view.
The wheels are made from carbon fibre to ensure extremely low unsprung mass as well as toughness and strength.
The spokes incorporate the 'blade theme' seen in many modern Land Rover details such as the side vents on the LRX concept car
The rear suspension is adjustable to enable the user to tune the vehicle for a specific track or their own preferences.
The vehicle featured hydraulically operated disc brakes at all 3 corners for optimum stopping power.
The tyres have a very aggressive tread pattern suitable for traversing any terrain.
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Land Rover XR-3 Recumbent Bike
The Land Rover XR-3 Recumbent Bike, as entered into the 2009 Land Rover Bicycle Design Competition.
This design received one of 5 commendation prizes as judged by members of the Land Rover design and marketing teams.
