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A motorcycle for reduced-mobility people

7-23-2007

by moto123.com

The Conquest 1200 is the world's first series-manufactured high-performance motorcycle for people with reduced mobility. This vehicle provides people with disabilities from the waist down the kind of autonomy no other recreational product has ever achieved.

Alan Martin, the founder of Martin Conquest, got the idea for this particular vehicle after his son, an outgoing and sporting young man, was involved in an accident that nailed him to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. As early stage prototypes were created, the project attracted considerable interest from various charities helping handicapped people. Initial funding for the company included support from several notorious individuals, such as Sir Frank Williams, the Principal of the BMW-Williams Formula One Team.


Safe and user-friendly

Riders can roll their wheelchairs onto the Conquest 1200 via a remote-controlled automated access ramp. A certified Ez-Lock wheelchair locking system increases safety for the rider. It easily disengages thanks to a push-button release mechanism that only works when the motorcycle is completely stopped and the engine turned off. A push-button, electrically operated handbrake system also adds to the convenience.

As for the brakes, the Conquest 1200 relies on hydraulically controlled front and rear disc brakes with single lever operation. Three 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels help reduce the unsprung weight of the bike and make the riding experience more enjoyable. The chassis of the Conquest 1200 is entirely made of aluminum and weighs only 565 kilos.

Excellent mechanics
The steering, powertrain and front end of the chassis were all designed by German manufacturer BMW. The Conquest 1200 is powered by a 1,130cc opposed twin-cylinder engine with 4 valves per cylinder and Bosch electronic fuel injection. It generates 83 horsepower and 72 lb-ft of torque. In spite of the additional weight it has to move (compared to the original model), this mill delivers a surprising all-around performance. The three-wheeler accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in 7.8 seconds and completes the quarter mile in 15 seconds. Top speed is 160 kph while fuel economy is rated at 5.6 L/100 km.

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