The Bikar

The Bikar was my Year-End-Project for one of my high school's engineering courses. It is a fully-electric go-kart with front and rear suspension, independent motor control, and is made from deconstructed bicycles, electronic components, and a square tube (mild steel) chassis. It won 1st place in my school system's annual technology fair, and was a big hit throughout the school.

Never having made a vehicle before, I first had to learn about all the different systems that vehicles have to make them go. After the initial research, I began thinking of designs and planning out the construction phases. Once I felt content with the plans, I began the construction process and worked my way through to the final product. I completed the project with a presentation displaying the process, which you can view here.

With a project this big, there was a lot to learn. As for technical skills, I learned a great deal of basic metalworking, how to work with circuitry, how to weld, and project management. I learned about steering, suspension, and motor-control systems, as well as the basics of vehicle design. During this project I began to realize the importance of patience and perseverence, and I consolidated my love for engineering as a whole.

I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent on this project, and while there are many things I would like to improve about The Bikar, I have carried the skills and lessons with me and have applied them in various other projects.