[CR]Landskiffs

(Example: History:Ted Ernst)

From: <StuartMX4@aol.com>
Date: Fri, 14 Feb 2003 18:39:49 EST
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]Landskiffs

I hope this will not be considered too far off topic. Does anyone know anything about the Curry Landskiff illustrated in Manfred Curry's 1928 book on the aerodynamics of sails? I believe that Curry was an American living in Munich. There are two pictures of Landskiffs in the book, one a 'single skull' and the other a 'double skull'. They are shown at Avus motor racing track and the brief mention in the text makes it clear that they were propelled by arms and legs. They had streamlined bodies and a speed of 30 miles an hour is mentioned. They had tubular chassis frames and the riders were recumbent but, other than that, it is difficult to fathom out much from the photographs. Bearing in mind the speed and the material they are made from, I think they must be on topic. How were the arms used? I don't suppose there are any left. They look perfect for the Vintage Sports Car Club's Boulogne cycle run! Stuart Tallack on the flat coastal plain of West Sussex

"I knew I loved the machine age when I got my first bicycle. You could throw it in the shed and forget it for a month. No food, no water and no love, but it would still nuzzle up to you and carry you down to the pub. Try that with a horse."
                                    Edgar Jessop