MotoCzysz
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MotoCzysz is a Portland, Oregon based motorcycle company that had intended to compete in the MotoGP.[1] The now-retired C1 prototype had an engine with perfect balance that did not need to make use of a balance shaft, a slipper clutch with twin clutches, a unique front suspension, and many other innovations. MotoCzysz is now working on the C2 and a 600cc engine.
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[edit] The C1
[edit] Frame
The C1 features an inflexible carbon fiber frame and a flexible forks and swingarm, as opposed to a flexible frame and stiff suspensions found on most motorcycles.[2] The frame also serves as the bike's airbox.
[edit] Engine
The 990cc four cylinder engine is mounted to the frame longitudinally (front-to-rear)—rather than transversely (side-to-side) as found most similarly configured motorcycles. A transverse arrangement fights a bike's gyroscopic tendency to stand up when leaned over and applying throttle. The Czysz, on the other hand, in order to negate the resulting gyroscopic forces of the longitudinal orientation, has its lengthwise-mounted inline 4 engine cut in half, and the resulting crankshaft halves counter-rotated. Thus, the bike handles as if it had a smaller engine with less gyroscopic force[3].
Two of the bike's four throttle bodies are controlled mechanically, while the other two are controlled electronically by the ECU, theoretically smoothing power delivery. The ECU-controlled throttle bodies can be adjusted by computer for refinement of the throttle curve.
[edit] Production
According to the company website, the C1 is being readied for production.[4] Exact production numbers have not been announced by MotoCzysz, but press reports stated that 50 bikes would be built for $100,000 each starting in late 2006.[2]
[edit] Awards
The C1 was recognized with the Robb Report's 2007 Achievement in Design Award.[5]
[edit] Notable People
- Michael Czysz, founder.
- Terry Czysz, Michael's father and former racer.
Hires:
- Federico Cioni, President. From Ducati he managed design of the Testastretta and Desmosedici RR engines for the well-known marque.
- Adrian Hawkins and Simon Jackson from Cosworth.
- Nico Reynier from the Kenny Roberts Race team.
- Jim Rhodes from Michelin North America Road Racing.
- Dave Sprinkle from Toyota Racing Development.
Other:
- Stefano Perotta, representative from Magneti Marelli.
[edit] References
- ^ Cameron, Kevin. "Forging a Future", Cycle World, August, 2006, pp. 84. Retrieved on January 22, 2007.
- ^ a b Sam Fleming. "Building the Dream / MotoCzysz Factory Tour", Road Racing World, September, 2006.
- ^ Alan Cathcart. American Beauty / C1 First Ride. Motorcyclist magazine.
- ^ MotoCzysz blog (January 31, 2007).
- ^ Buchanan, Jeff. "True Believer: Perchance to dream / MotoCzysz C1", Robb Report Motorcycling, February/March 2007, pp. 63.
