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Sunday, May 25, 2025

Tracer MK Series: Innovative Tilting Trikes by an Australian Architect

Tilting Innovation - The world of unconventional vehicles has always been a breeding ground for creativity and engineering brilliance. Among the most fascinating innovations is the Tracer MK III, a unique three-wheeled machine that blends motorcycle agility with automotive aerodynamics. Designed and built by Australian architect Mike Richardson, this steampunk-inspired trike is not just a visual spectacle but also a remarkable feat of engineering.
The Tracer MK III is the final evolution of the three-wheeled vehicle designed and developed by Australian architect Mike Richardson between the 1990s and 2000s. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
Richardson’s journey into tilting vehicles began in the late 1990s when he started experimenting with three-wheeled designs featuring a leaning-tilting suspension. His first creation, the MK I, debuted in 1997 as a single-seat vehicle with an aluminum chassis and bodywork
The Tracer MK III was initially designed as a two-seater, but the prototype was built with only a single seat. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
Powered by a 736cc air-cooled DOHC engine from a Honda CB750, it was an ambitious step toward developing a new class of vehicles. The MK II followed soon after, further refining the concept with improvements in structure and balance.
The sole Tracer MK III prototype was, in fact, built as a single-seat vehicle with an aluminum chassis and bodywork. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
The most advanced version, the Tracer MK III, was originally intended as a two-seater, but the prototype that was built only accommodated a single seat. Unlike its predecessors, this model pushed the boundaries of tilting trike engineering. It retained a rear-mounted Honda engine, delivering a balance of power and efficiency.
The Tracer MK III's striking aluminum body, inspired by classic aviation aesthetics, gave it a unique retro-futuristic appeal, gaining recognition beyond the automotive world. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
Its striking aluminum body, inspired by classic aviation aesthetics, gave it a unique retro-futuristic appeal, gaining recognition beyond the automotive world. The design even attracted the interest of academics at Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia, who studied its innovative tilting mechanism.
The sole Tracer MK III prototype is powered by a rear-mounted 736cc air-cooled DOHC Honda engine. (Picture from: Jalopnik on X)
Despite its impressive engineering, it remains unclear whether Richardson's work led to a commercial enterprise or if his technology was ever licensed for production. However, his creations, particularly the Tracer MK III, stand as a testament to experimental engineering and the pursuit of unconventional mobility solutions. | yO5V9kr_ES0 | WEFyfzzmKzM | 
This remarkable vehicle continues to spark curiosity among automotive enthusiasts and engineers alike. Whether viewed as a steampunk dream machine or a serious attempt at redefining three-wheeled transport, the Tracer MK III remains a unique chapter in the world of experimental vehicles.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPNIK ON X | ALYZENMOONSHADOWDOTCOM | WEIRD WHEELS | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCAR | AUTOPUZZLES | CHRISPOOLE74 ON FLICKR ]
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