single wheel vs. live axle

[jeff_man]

I understand that single wheel turns easier so go for hard ashpalt, but since only one wheel is powered would you lose speed

 

[vix]

good question

 

[mikeandike]

You'll lose traction. I dont think you'll loose speed though.

 

[2or3wheels]

Yeah i dont think it matters. Just traction.

 

[jeff_man]

yah, maybe not just traction and maybe then acceleration

 

[my_mini_bike]

you might loose speed through lack of traction. but one wheel drive isn't any slower than a live axle

 

[vix]

you should consider that the tire driven will wear out faster than the other tire.

 

[new2me]

It may not be as fast when first taking off but the that's it.

 

[Motors_R_Us]

single vs. live axle

With a single wheel drive you will sacrifice a little traction, not really speed or acceleration. In fact, the instantaneous torque is transmitted directly to the single wheel drive, with less loss of power transfer; so the acceleration will be slightly better. With the live axle, you sacrifice some acceleration purely due to the amount of required torque loading which is required to get the axle/wheel configuration moving. The more parts & components that you need to turn, equates to more overall dynamic mechanical loss in your drivetrain.