A Local Physiotherapist and bicycle fitter Spencer Pootz BScKin, MScPT performed a standard pressure evaluation used for saddle fitting and found the Wing seat showed a factor of about 10 times less pressure than the saddle seat used for comparison that would normally cause discomfort for the rider. This aligns well with out experience riding the G;ider seat. He also found the Glider seat movement to be natural and an important component of the comfort provided by our design.
The Final Printed Prototypes
This is my first ride on a seat that is truly revolutionary. This new PA12 nylon composite is light, incredibly rugged, and does not seem to require lubrication on the moving parts. The Glider seat is also very comfortable and can support weight up to 250 lbs in this version. Best ride ever! This is what we will be manufacturing.
So this is October?
This is likely the last above 20 degree day of this year, but who knows. My efforts to draw attention to the bicycle and the Glider seat as a winning combination to fight climate change is gaining traction.
The production prototype under test
I have been out and about on the newest incarnation of the Glider seat, the production prototype. It is very smooth operating and comfortable. The nylon construction is very tough and is everything I had hoped it would be in this application.
Riding at the park
It was supposed to be warmer.
I started expecting 2 degrees C, but it turned out to be -9.
The fall descends
There is nothing quite like the fall transition. It does not last long enough..
The ebike experience
Testing one of the newer ebike designs with the wing seat was revealing and inspiring. These bikes require the rider to pedal to activate the motorized assist and it was exhilarating to experience the motor kick in and make pedaling much easier. The Glider seat was very comfortable on this bike and supports my notion that this seat is a natural fit for this style of bike. The step-through design, power assist, and Glider seat make it an ideal technical choice for older riders. The only issue is the price, but I expect this to come down as these bikes get more popular.
A new arrival
The latest 3d printed version of the Glider seat is now available. This will be the first to be offered to interested early adopters. The one shown is an earlier prototype fabricated from aluminum.
Wilderness in the city
Calgary has many hidden gems to explore but the bicycle is a necessity. The summer weather allows this type of travel and exploration and I cannot imagine life without it. It permits one to forget for a while the isolation that comes with surviving a pandemic.
Manufacturing Aluminum Parts
While most of the Glider seat is printed plastic, the post assembly is aluminum, and requires some welding. Since I am not a welder, I built this motorized jig to allow me to put these parts together inexpensively and in a way that can be taught to anyone fairly easily. I recently entered this design in the KMS tools Build Anything contest.
