Originally Posted by ttakata73
Seems a smart design putting the hinge like that since the weight of the rider compresses the frame together.
Originally Posted by Azreal911
The beauty of this fold is if you forget to put the safety latch the bike would still be very stable because your weight alone is actually keeping it together.
Sorry, but no.
That is unfortunately not correct for
all riding situations, applying actually while normal riding and braking rear
only!
BUT, at the moment of activating the front brake will stability be – gone!
To be more exact; I’m referring here to the locking mechanism (safety latch) of the Qix main hinge,
as far I’ve heard are Qix and Eezz hinge systems technically identical and therefore will the following apply – most likely – for the Eezz, too.
For our meaning here in Austria/Europe has this mechanism to be called:
Potentially dangerous!
Please note that the safety latch does not include any second, passive safety retainer - so
Originally Posted by Azreal911
...if you forget to put the safety latch ...
the hinge remains fully opened!
You’re right with the weight, but this effect does not apply any longer once you engage the front brake, in a flash will the bike react like that:
And that’s again what I’ve meant above, with a moving wheelbase – while struggling not to fall off backwards because the bike starts/executes self-folding beneath your butt
– there is no more stability to expect.
Also I have to say that I did not experience above mentioned myself as a rider – but being an eyewitness of tests in that matter on one hand and on the other the surprise that nobody before mentioned/noticed let me write this.
Btw – my local dealer
refused to sell either Qix or Eezz – as long as the
(Small or big? – What’s your opinion?)
security deficiency of this particular hinge (version?) remains unsolved.
Wished that somebody could explain this "front brake - frame flip up" behaviour in bike physics related terms...I'm afraid it'd take me another hours to figure out and translate that correctly...
Finally a friendly advice -
- for
all Qix/Eezz owners:
Please do not forget to close the safety latch – never!
- for
sporty, adventurous and brave Qix/Eezz owners:
If you attempt to experience this behaviour yourself, PLEASE:
- Ride as slow as possible for such tests.
- (Try to) Be prepared to leave pedals and seat quickly; the bikes reaction comes unexpected and fast.
Thanks and have a safe ride,
BSA