The MAKE Interns Build a Pedal Car, Part I

Every year at Maker Faire there are tons of amazing events and exhibits. One of my favorite events is the Fun Bike Unicorn Club’s amazing “Death Defying Figure Eight Pedal Car Races.” Contestants design and build 4-wheeled human-powered vehicles and race them in a figure-eight pattern. The crowd is drawn in by the potential for crashes, but they stay because of the great personalities and general hijinks.

In previous years, Make: Labs has attempted to build a pedal car for these races but we haven’t finished due to a lack of time and general know-how. This year we still don’t have time or know-how, but we’re doing it anyway. I’m attempting to build a pedal car that will be ready to race by Maker Faire Bay Area, and I’m going to be updating the blog periodically on my progress.

I’d like to reiterate here, I have no idea what I’m doing. I’m making it up as I go along and soliciting help from people much smarter than me. I do, however, think that many makers out there may be able to relate to my position. I have an idea and some ambition, and I have no idea how I’m going to complete it. I’m going to share my ideas and obstacles with you, the MAKE community, and I would love to hear your suggestions and commentary. If all goes well I’ll have a beautiful pedal car, and I’ll have gained tons of experience in the process.

So far, I’m working off of an old frame designed by Dan Spangler a few years ago.

To save time I’m going to repurpose it for this pedal car.

It’s a bit rusty so I’ve been grinding it off. I just finished spraying on primer, and soon I’ll paint it.

I’ve also got to make some revisions to its dimensions so that we can better fit within the rules of the races — which can be found here. I’ve already bought a differential, bearings, disc brakes, wheels, and tons of other stuff that should make the next few steps a lot easier.

I look forward to going on this journey with you, and my fingers are crossed that this will be a success. Please share your thoughts, suggestions, and questions in the comments section below. Let’s collaborate!