6
Schedule cool-down breaks for the brakes. If you stop with the brakes very hot, never leave the parking
brake on for a long period of time because the brake drums can permanently warp as they cool.
With centre steering (steering via a central steering column), both front wheel brakes are controlled
via a brake lever.
With tank- steering (planned), the front wheel brakes are controlled separately: left brake lever for the
left front wheel, right brake lever for the right front wheel.
When braking, always apply both brake levers (for the left and right front wheel) so that you can
develop the full braking effect and the vehicle does not change its direction.
Familiarize yourself with the braking characteristics of the Bülk MK1 and the braking distances by
performing braking exercises in a safe place.
Like every tricycle, the Bülk MK1 must always be secured against rolling away: this can be done with
one or more parking brakes (clamp toggle for central steering, clamping bracket for tank-steering). Be
aware that when you are loading or entering the vehicle, braking may be insufficient on a downhill
slope. If the parking brake is no longer effective, this is a sign that the brake cables must be readjusted.
It can also happen that the Bülk MK1 is parked in a very windy place and is moved by the wind.
Unoccupied, the Bülk MK1 is a very light vehicle and offers the wind a large surface to attack.
4.2 Steering
With centre steering, the Bülk MK1 is steered by turning the steering column; tilting to the side or
swivelling the steering column forwards has no effect on the steering.
With tank steering using the steering levers on the front wheel housing, it is in principle possible to
steer with one lever, but note that in braking situations both hands are needed to operate the left and
right brakes.
The chassis is designed in such a way that very little steering effort is required when driving.
Accordingly, the steering levers are lightweight. Do not steer when the vehicle is stationary and never
use force when steering to avoid damaging the steering system.
The steering angle is limited by the laterally closed front wheel housing (this is necessary for
aerodynamic reasons). Therefore, drive with foresight and turn in early on tight bends. It is best to
practice cornering on an area where there is no traffic. If you turn hard when manoeuvring, the front
wheels will rub against the fairing. This is easy to hear and gives the driver a signal not to turn further.
Again, do not use force when steering.
4.3 Cornering
The Bülk MK1 is a three-track vehicle with a relatively small track width. It behaves completely
differently in curves than a normal bicycle and can tip over to the side if the curve speed is too high in
conjunction with unfavourable steering behaviour on the part of the driver. Therefore, approach these
properties slowly and get to know the curve properties through practice. If the wheel on the inside of
the curve lifts in curves, you should immediately counter steer accordingly so that the vehicle does not
tip over. This is often not possible (especially in right-hand bends), especially when oncoming traffic
doesn't allow it. Therefore, avoid such situations at all costs and adjust your speed.
In principle, caution is advised on slippery roads, as the rear wheel can break out if corners are taken
too quickly. This can be the case with black ice, leaves or wet conditions.
