The Krauser Domani is a motorcycle

Motorcycle

A motorcycle is a single-track, two-wheeled motor vehicle. Motorcycles vary considerably depending on the task for which they are designed, such as long distance travel, navigating congested urban traffic, cruising, sport and racing, or off-road conditions.Motorcycles are one of the most...

 based, 3-wheeled vehicle developed by Michael Krauser GmBH and powered by BMW

BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad is the motorcycle brand of the German company BMW, part of its Corporate and Brand Development division. The current General Director of the unit is Hendrik von Kuenheim....

, built for sale in Japan and Europe. The vehicle looks like a motorcycle with a sidecar

Sidecar

A sidecar is a one-wheeled device attached to the side of a motorcycle, scooter, or bicycle, producing a three-wheeled vehicle.-History:A sidecar appeared in a cartoon by George Moore in the January 7, 1903, issue of the British newspaper Motor Cycling. Three weeks later, a provisional patent was...

 attached, however unlike the former, the "sidecar" of the Domani is structurally an integral part of the frame. In Japan, one does not require a motorcycle license to drive it, a normal car license is sufficient.

Body & Chassis

The Domani is built around a torsionally rigid tubular steel frame with structurally integrated sidecar unit. As mentioned above, the sidecar portion of the vehicle is an integral part of the frame. One of the advantages of this is that the frame is torsionally stiffer than that of a regular sidecar equipped motorcycle. Also, the suspension and layout for the two rear wheels can now be more car-like, with the sidecar's wheel being driven as well, making the vehicle a true rear-wheel drive. The unique frame also allows for aerodynamic fibreglass bodywork that wouldn't be possible in a traditional set-up. This in turn allows for some unique packaging of the components, for example the radiator is now mounted in the sidecar where it's better exposed to airflow. The aerodynamic skin also allows for the inclusion of a small luggage compartment in the back.

Engine

The Domani is powered by a BMW K 1200 engine producing 150 hp and connected to a 5-speed gearbox. The engine, coupled with the Domani's light curb weight (390 kg) is enough to power the vehicle to a factory specified maximum of over 200 km/h.

Suspension

The Domani utilizes 3 wheel independent suspension with double-wishbones at the rear and dual rocker arms at the front. These are connected to 185/60 - R14 tyres at the front and in the sidecar and 195/60 - R15 tyred at the rear.

External links

Krauser Domani at Michael Krauser GmBH.Krauser Domani at http://www.motoco.co.jp/