In this article, I'll outline the steps needed to build a Motorized Drift Trike, from selecting the proper engine to choosing an axle assembly and clutch. I'll also touch on problems you may encounter while building the vehicle. Ultimately, you should be able to build a fun trike that is both functional and competitive. Hopefully, you'll enjoy the process as much as I did. Make sure to bookmark this article so you can come back to it when you need some tips and tricks.
Full build DIY plans are available here!!
Problems with the rear wheel
When building a Motorized Drift Trike, some people choose to forgo a rear wheel brake in favor of a push-bike style brake. This allows the weight to be transferred from the rear to the front when the vehicle is braking. However, the lack of a rear brake has several hidden problems. Here are some of them:
Rear wheels are tricky to build. Several batteries are required to power the motor. The rear wheel brake, however, is an especially challenging design issue, and I did not know how to make one without a problem. Also, the battery parallel connection did not provide enough voltage for the motor. The result was a poorly-designed rear wheel. As a result, it was impossible to drive the trike without a rear brake.
A rear wheel problem can cause the trike to spin wildly when it's not driven. This problem is most common with gas-driven drift trikes. You can also use a gas-powered trike for your drifting adventures, but the non-motorized version will be harder to drive up steep hills. Nonetheless, the non-motorized trike is a fun addition to any garage. It can be a fun way to exercise and make new memories.
A loose rear wheel can cause damage to the hubs, rims, and wheels. The wheel could fall off and cause the parts to slide around, making them unusable. The axle shaft, on the other hand, is prone to vibration. A loose rear wheel can also cause the rear wheel lugs to work loose or cause large slots to form on the rim. These are just some of the problems you may encounter when building a drift trike.
Choosing the right engine
One of the most crucial aspects of building a Drift Trike is choosing the right engine. Most of these machines are powered by petrol, but some are even made from electric bicycle parts, such as the motorised front wheel. While an aluminium sprocket can save the crankshaft from pulling during braking, it will not save the vehicle's engine. Choosing the right engine for your Drift Trike is crucial, as it will determine its speed and durability.
For starters, you can go for a small stationary engine. You can find a good one for a low price. If you want a higher power output, you can opt for a large capacity engine. However, this will increase the weight of the trike, which will worsen the 'pendulum effect' of the rear axle. While large capacity engines can produce high horsepower, they are not ideal for a Drift Trike.
Once you've chosen a motor, you can begin the process of building your Drift Trike. While you'll need to make sure that the engine you've chosen is safe and reliable, you'll be able to ride your new motorized trike nearly anywhere. As long as you don't violate the local bylaws, you'll be ready to start drifting.
Next, you need to decide on which kind of gearbox you'll use. There are two kinds of belt-driven transmissions, and it's essential to choose one that fits your needs. You can also get a belt-driven gearbox, which has a low torque rating and high torque. However, this is not the best option for a Drift Trike because it will make the car hard to steer.
Choosing the right axle assembly
When building a drift trike, the axle is an important component to ensure proper alignment. Some manufacturers offer axle kits, which include these components. Others, such as Drift Trike Industrial, offer axles that require cutting, but are precut to fit. Either way, the components are available in kit form or precut for easy installation. You can order these components from authorized independent suppliers or from your local store.
Many builders opt to purchase axle assemblies. These kits include bearings, self-aligning holders, weld-on brackets, and pillow block style bearings. The best part about axle kits is that you don't have to worry about sourcing individual parts for your trike. You'll find it easy to fit all the parts to your trike using the axle assembly. You'll be able to drive your new trike in no time.
When building a drift trike, choose the axle that works the best for your intended use. If you're using PVC-covered wheels, they'll lose traction over time, and your wheels will spin. You can also choose to use a forged axle with a steel axle. The same applies to axles with a welded-on axle. These wheels can be difficult to get back in shape after being driven on rough surfaces, so be careful. Always keep your feet on the foot rest when riding your trike.
Choosing a clutch
When building a drift trike, you want to choose a good clutch. Most standard style clutches are not durable enough to withstand the abuse your drift trike will take. SR clutches are better, but they can still fail. The base level clutches will do a decent job but will not last very long on a slider. This is why you should only purchase high-quality slider clutches.