AP Trike with a fast-speed specification, customized to look like the Self-Defense Forces
In May 2024, all tricycles called “AP Trike” made in China gathered at a certain place in Saitama Prefecture. Among them, this time we focus on one owned by Mr. Sugihara, the founder of the meeting, who took advantage of the fact that it is a small and simple vehicle to customize it with a rich individuality. He had customized it with the theme of “Self-Defense Forces specifications.
Look at the gimmicks in various parts of the body
Mr. Sugihara, the founder of the “AP Trike Meeting” that gathered here this time, came across this vehicle three years ago, and since then, he has thoroughly worked on not only its appearance but also its interior.
The AP Trike is a three-wheeled vehicle manufactured in China. It has a body with a roof without sides, and is powered by an air-cooled single-cylinder 125cc engine and a centrifugal clutch-type 4-speed transmission. In other words, it is a derivative unit of the Cub series. It is also equipped with backup gear and can be started with a cell phone. This makes it the perfect machine for casual riding.
Mr. Sugihara customized such an AP trike based on the concept of “what if the Self-Defense Forces were using it? Every part of the vehicle has been touched up, from the “wow” factor to the “giggle” factor.
The olive-colored body was DIY painted with brush
The body covering the cabin was painted in olive color by brush application. Each light has a cover made from aluminum pipes and other materials. Incidentally, the roof and rear license plates are equipped with lights for control lights.
In addition, the car is equipped with a self-destruct mechanism and dynamite, a time circuit, and a dimensional transfer device similar to those on the DeLorean in the movie “Back to the Future,” and a water spray system in the front of the car.
By the way, there is a solar panel mounted on the roof, which is a practical item that can replenish the battery when the car is stopped.
“We have a lot of things installed, so we use a lot of electricity.”
The engine has been powered up and the body has been reinforced for a faster speed
Although the Sugihara had such a jokey (?) appearance, it was quite impressive inside as well! The engine was replaced with a 190cc engine of the same model + manual transmission with clutch, and the displacement was increased to 212cc. A clutch pedal was added to the left leg of the cabin.
In addition, the flywheel was deliberately made heavier to ensure the smooth operation of the vehicle, which is heavier than a motorcycle, and several electric fans were added around the engine to keep the engine cool even when the vehicle is stationary.
By the way, the body of the car is also designed not only to be fast but also to be stable. The rear end has been widened by installing spacers and overfenders. In addition, not only has a frame been placed on the inside of the roof, but also one reinforcement bar on each side has been installed to increase the rigidity of the body, allowing for a more stable driving experience.
translated by DeepL