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2009 Campagna Motors T-Rex 1400R Preview

7-16-2009

by Luc Gagné , Auto123.com

A trailblazing crossover
Half-car, half-motorcycle, the T-Rex borrows components from both worlds. The Kawasaki ZX-14R engine is unquestionably one of the main features. The mid-engine configuration helps improve the balance of this radical two-seater, which isn’t suited for everybody by the way…

If you’re somewhat overweight, putting yourself on display like that isn’t the most pleasant thing.

First, riders have to control a true sequential-type transmission (also sourced from Kawasaki). Motorcyclists are familiar with this system, while car drivers must take the time to learn. There’s nothing complicated, though.

Then, you have to deal with the over-exposed cockpit. If you’re somewhat overweight (like yours truly), putting yourself on display like that isn’t the most pleasant thing. Also, sliding your legs under the dashboard and into the narrow tunnel hidden by the nose of the T-Rex -- not to mention sitting in either of the two fully-bolstered buckets mounted just inches from the ground -- requires serious agility.

If you’re 6’2’’ or taller on top of that, expect your safety helmet to be stuck against the frame’s upper tube. And don’t think about NOT wearing a helmet! The ultra-low, almost horizontal riding position makes it a must to protect your head from road debris, bugs or even birds. At 100+ km/h, these things hurt!

Designed as a race car

Just like the Lotus Elise, this no-compromise machine was designed with performance in mind by a man who had the body size of a race car driver. The T-Rex is therefore better suited for average-size folks. In other words, the smaller you are, the more fun you will get!

As far as the ride is concerned, the level of comfort will probably surprise you. In fact, compared with a Nissan GT-R, this three-wheeler is a rolling ball of feathers!

Further emphasizing its no-compromise nature is the fact that you can use the T-Rex both for your weekday commute (provided that Mother Nature is in a good mood) and your weekend escapades on the track -- no modifications required! The dynamics and overall performance of the machine leave Ferrari drivers flabbergasted, yet it’s cheap and easy to fix up after an intense lapping session.

Lots of T-Rex enthusiasts have been aware of that for a long time!

You can use the T-Rex both for your weekday commute and your weekend escapades on the track.





Photo Credit : Matthieu Lambert
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