The Princeton Cubs and Terriers
Who would have thought that 70 years after the first model of a series of motorcycles began exercising young minds in a factory in Meriden, England, those same motorcycles would still be exercising young minds in a prestigious university over 3000 miles away across the Atlantic?
But they are!
But they are!
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Since 2009, Prof. Michael Littman from the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department of Princeton University, New Jersey, USA., has offered a yearly hands-on seminar in the Art and Science of Motorcycle Design, whereby Students have restored a vintage Triumph motorcycle and compared it to previous restorations of a similar make and model of motorcycle from other years. |
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Students examine, disassemble, model, test, and rebuild the motorcycle using both classic and modern engineering tools including computer-aided design (CAD) software for the documentation and prototyping of engine parts, engine simulation software for understanding factors affecting engine performance, and engine brake dynamometer for determination of engine power and torque.
They also assess and restore motorcycle components utilising precise measurement and repair and redesign (where appropriate) key parts including the restoration of cylinder, piston, head, cam, valves, transmission, brakes, fork, oil system, clutch and chain.
Finally the Students inspect and restore all electrical system components as needed, along with disassembling, cleaning, repainting and restoring the frame and suspension.
They also assess and restore motorcycle components utilising precise measurement and repair and redesign (where appropriate) key parts including the restoration of cylinder, piston, head, cam, valves, transmission, brakes, fork, oil system, clutch and chain.
Finally the Students inspect and restore all electrical system components as needed, along with disassembling, cleaning, repainting and restoring the frame and suspension.
So far the Students have restored a: 1956 Terrier 1957 Tiger Cub 1958 Tiger Cub 1959 Tiger Cub 1960 Tiger Cub x 3 1962 Tiger Cub 1963 Tiger Cub x 2 1965 Tiger Cub and a 1964 Tiger Cub From the above, it's fairly obvious the motorcycle of choice is a Tiger Cub or Terrier. The reason being the Tiger is Princeton's mascot, so using Tiger Cubs for the class is perfect. Professor Littman also reports he got drawn into motorcycles by Glenn Northey, who is head of the Manufacturing Centre and runs the Mechanical Design Course. The idea of the Seminar was done in partnership with Glenn; who had a Cub as a teenager! Over the next few weeks I'll be showing each year's restoration from the earliest to the latest in the students' own words. So watch this space as they say! |
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