2)
AIRBOARD
1) How does the AIRBOARD work?
The exciting and new Hovering Scooter uses Hovercraft air cushion principles
to glide just above the ground. The air cushion is generated from
a uniquely designed engine and fan, which are suspended below the Hovering
Scooter
shell. In addition to providing an air cushion for the Hovering Scooter
to ride on the fan also provides a fast stream of air exiting from
the rear of the craft to provide forward thrust - just like a hovercraft.
To help provide better acceleration the Hovering Scooter also includes
a unique friction drive wheel at the rear of the craft. When the
rider
wishes to accelerate forward, weight transfer of the body towards
the rear of the craft is used to bring the friction drive into contact
with
the ground. By engaging the friction drive clutch in this manner,
the Hovering Scooter can be accelerated forward without losing the
feel of
hovering above the ground. The control of the Hovering Scooter is
provided by weight transfer of the rider, similar to surfboards, skate
boards
and
snow boards. In operation the Hovering Scooter can be started, stopped
and steered in a controlled manner and this means that riders can
perform stunts, trick maneuvers and race around tight tracks against
each other.
In this unique way the Hovering Scooter is the first ever vehicle
to deliver
the advantages of hovercraft vehicle without the disadvantages of
poor acceleration and handling. Click
image for MPEG video clip

2) How safe is the AIRBOARD?
When the AIRBOARD is used in strict accordance with the manufacturers recommendations,
it is very safe to use and ride. The recommended practices are detailed fully
in the Operations and Maintenance Manual, which is delivered with each AIRBOARD.
These recommendations include the following:
· The
AIRBOARD must be used on Private Property
· The AIRBOARD must be used on level ground which is free from loose
material such as sand, stones, sticks, leaves,
refuse, raised bumps, etc.
· The AIRBOARD must be used on open ground free of obstacles, which
pose a collision risk, such as trees, walls, curbs,
spectators, etc.
· The AIRBOARD rider must wear protective clothing, elbow and knee-pads,
helmet and eye protection.
· Spectators must stay a safe distance from operating AIRBOARDS,
and riders must refrain from riding close to where spectators are standing or
walking.
· The AIRBOARD'S center of gravity is so low it is virtually impossible
to tip over, and in addition, the Hovering Scooter handlebars provide a positive
hold point for the rider.
· The handle includes levers that control the engine speed and the friction
drive clutch. Both of these levers are spring return to neutral so that the AIRBOARD will
automatically stop when the rider lets go of the handlebars. The handle also
includes a engine stop switch (kill switch) for extra safety, similar to those
used on water-jet recreational vehicles.
· As with any moving craft or device, Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
must be used such as helmet, safe fully enclosed shoes, long sleeve shirts or
tops and safety eye protection, knee and elbow pads.
4)
Where and how is the AIRBOARD made?
The AIRBOARDis made in Australia in a manufacturing plant where
each of the specially designed components are prepared and assembled by
hand. Each and every AIRBOARD is individually tested before
it is delivered to you, so that we know it is operating correctly.
5) How fast will the AIRBOARD go
and how do you stop?
Because the AIRBOARD is used on flat ground your speed is limited
by the wind resistance that the rider and board present compared to the
combined air and friction-wheel thrust. In addition different riding surfaces
have different resistance factors (for example grass compared to concrete).
For an average rider in still air conditions (no wind), riding on smooth
surfaces, the AIRBOARD speed is limited to approx 15 miles per hour
(25 Kilometers per hour). Where there is a slight wind, the AIRBOARD
speed upwind will be slower and downwind will be faster. It is virtually
impossible for the AIRBOARD to travel faster than 18 mph (30 km)
per hour, which is a similar speed to some electric stand-on scooters.
The speeds at which the Hovering Scooter travels at is a safe speed; however
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must still be worn in case you were
to ever fall off the board when attempting fast cornering or trick maneuvers
or were stopped abruptly by an obstacle. Stopping the AIRBOARD is
easy - just release the levers on the handle bar and it will
quickly slide
to a halt. From top speed, it will usually take just a few yards
(meters) to stop in a straight line however skilled riders prefer
to stop faster
in a sliding turn - just like in snow skiing and snow boarding.
6) How is the AIRBOARD Controlled?
The AIRBOARD handlebars include two control levers - one for
the engine/fan speed and the second for the friction drive clutch. In
addition to using these two levers, the AIRBOARD rider
uses weight transfer (shifting one's body weight), to steer the
board
to the left
or right - very similar to a skateboard or snowboard. By
using differing degrees of weight transfer, the AIRBOARD can
be made to respond in different ways - sharp or slow turns, fast
360 degree turns and
sliding
turns are all possible.
As the riders' skills increase, so does the range of exciting
maneuvers that can be performed.
7)
What kind of fuel does the AIRBOARD use and how long will on
tank last?
The AIRBOARD uses standard grade gasoline (85 Octane rating)
and holds approximately 1.3 US Gallons (5 liters), which should
last around
one hour of normal riding.
8)
How old must you be to ride and AIRBOARD?
Because the AIRBOARD is so easy to ride almost anybody can ride
in simple traverse style. As each rider gains experience, Freestyle and
Race-style skills will be learned. However, it is our opinion that the
AIRBOARD should only be ridden by people aged 14 and above
since they have sufficient weight to transfer and steer the machine
and also
the basic understanding of how to use and maintain powered sports
equipment. Riders also need to be at least 5 feet (1.3 meters) tall,
so that they
can comfortably reach and use the control levers.
9) Where can you ride the AIRBOARD?
The AIRBOARD should be ridden on level ground and private property
for maximum safety of both rider and spectators. Suitable surfaces for
the AIRBOARD include grass, concrete, asphalt or packed dense materials.
It is essential that the surface is not loose or littered with material
that could be lifted by the airstream of the AIRBOARD. In addition
the surface must be able to withstand the combined AIRBOARD and
rider weight in the stationary (non operating) condition. The AIRBOARD
should NEVER be used on water or surfaces, which are unable to support
the rider and machine. In some areas, groups of riders may choose to approach
their local Town regulators to set aside an area suitable for AIRBOARD
use. Unused parking lots, grassy open areas and old golf courses could
all be used for AIRBOARD. Where a AIRBOARD can be used is
limited only by your imagination and your local regulations and ordinances.
Above all, make your safety and that of other riders, spectators, and
surrounding property, your first priority. Never allow yourself to ride
in areas where the AIRBOARD could glide into object, obstacles
or people. When you arrive at your riding area, create a demarcation,
which
will clearly define the areas where the Scooters will ride, and the
areas where non-riders and spectators or other elements will have
to remain
during the riding process. Never allow yourself to break that rule,
and always give yourself plenty of time and space to come to a stop.
When
unsure about something, either stop immediately, or do not ride,
until the situation has been cleared. Also, always wear protective
headgear,
knee and elbow protection, and gloves.
10) Is the AIRBOARD patented?
The AIRBOARD has been protected with both Patents and Design
Registrations; which will help in the continued funding of research and
development towards more innovative and exciting products. Without using
this patented Intellectual Property cheap imitations of the AIRBOARD
will not be able to perform the speed and control maneuvers that make
the AIRBOARD so exclusive and so much fun to ride.
11) How big is an AIRBOARD and how much does it weigh?
The AIRBOARD is about 5 feet 3 inches (1.6 meters) in diameter
and weighs just under 200Lbs (85 Kgs). The rider platform on the AIRBOARD
is only 12 inches (300 mm) from the ground, which makes the AIRBOARD so
safe and easy to use because of its extremely low center of gravity.
12) How many people can the AIRBOARD carry?
The Hovering Scooter is not recommended to carry more than one person
since its performance and speed may be less than optimal with the
extra weight. In addition an extra person can make the control and
steering
more difficult than with a single rider.
13)
Is the AIRBOARD easy
to maintain?
When you purchase a Hovering Scooter you also get a comprehensive
maintenance manual and tool kit containing essential tools for
maintaining the board.
The largest component of the AIRBOARD is the engine, which needs
periodic servicing by an authorized service agent. Fortunately the AIRBOARD
engine is made by one of the worlds biggest manufacturers and there are
many thousands of service centers around the world. Finding a service
agent near your home will not be difficult. Apart from the engine there
are only a few small parts that need periodic replacement. We call these
components' consumable parts and these are available from us for a very
modest sum. If you have accidentally caused some damage to your AIRBOARD and/or
are unable to repair or replace a part on your own, you can always
ship the Scooter to our North American Repair and Maintenance Center
in
Battle Creek Michigan.
14) Does the AIRBOARD go on
water?
No! The AIRBOARD is not designed for use on water. It can be used
on wet or soft surfaces provided they can support the total weight of
board and rider. For more information on where the AIRBOARD can
be used please return to the answers to question # 9.
15)
What colors does the AIRBOARD come
in?
The AIRBOARD comes in Silver, Black and Blue as standard colors.
For larger quantities (e.g. Corporate promotions) a wider range of colors
are available and corporate logos can be applied during manufacture. What
a great way to entertain your staff and clients at your next retreat!
If required the AIRBOARD can be supplied with special purpose
flagpoles and corporate emblems that will really impress your clients
and visitors.
16) Do you need lessons to learn how to ride?
You do not require formal training before riding the AIRBOARD other
than carefully reading and following the instructions provided. Most people
can learn to ride competently within half an hour of use. Best of all,
the AIRBOARD is suitable for those people who may have difficulty
with sports such as skateboarding and snowboarding. The AIRBOARD
provides a new experience and sensation at a much higher level of safety
than alternatives. Make sure you master the basic control skills before
attempting more adventurous riding or trick maneuvers. As with any other
recreational concept involving physical activity and movement through
any space, you should always take things slowly at first, ensuring your
safety and that of others. Progress at your own pace, always making sure
that you are competent enough to make a particular maneuver or achieve
a particular direction or speed. Soon, you will find yourself enjoying
the AIRBOARD to the amazement and enjoyment of many onlookers.
17) What tricks can I do on an AIRBOARD?
Once the basic control skills are mastered the number of tricks
you can perform is limited by your own imagination. Many maneuvers
are
possible
some of which are, 360 degree spins, sliding stops and turns, zigzag
movements,
obstacle negotiation etc. It is fun to set up some Road Marks or
lightweight objects on your hovering terrain to define a track
to follow. Race a
friend
on their Hovering Scooter or simply do time trials to improve your
speed and handling skills. Don't be afraid to use the AIRBOARD on
wet surfaces as new tricks and handling skills can be learned.
Riding through
shallow puddles can be a real buzz!
18) How does the AIRBOARD differ
from a standard Hovercraft?
The AIRBOARD differs from hovercraft in that it has a drive wheel
able to be selectively employed for acceleration and directional control.
The AIRBOARD also has friction devices that can be used for steering
and stopping. Using these features in combination is part of the thrill
and pleasure of riding the AIRBOARD.
19) What must I wear when I am riding
an AIRBOARD?
As with all recreational riding sports, you should wear head protection,
eye and ear protection, elbow and knee protection, as well as footwear
with friction soles. It is also strongly advised that you wear
a long sleeved shirt and long trousers in case you should fall
off
your AIRBOARD.
21) Where can I buy a AIRBOARD:
If you do not have a dealer in your area, you may contact us directly
at Alura
Intelligent Products at the address
below. We
will direct you to your nearest dealer if there is one in your
area, or you will be able to order the AIRBOARD directly from
Alura. FOR ADDITIONAL AIRBOARD INFORMATION | Please contact the importers at Alura Intelligent Products, Inc. in Larchmont, New York, at 1.914.630.1732 or write to: alura75413@aol.com
22) Can I become a Dealer
of the AIRBOARD?
Yes, but there are limited Dealerships available, so please contact
Alura Intelligent Products to
see if there are any Dealerships available in your area. Only serious
inquiries please. Dealers are required to purchase a stock of AIRBOARD to
establish their Dealership rights, based on the geographic area
where they will operate.
General
Information:
· Total payload, incl. rider: 100kg (220 lb)
· Operating time: 1 hour on full tank of fuel
· Construction: Fiberglass/High-impact plastic shell, aluminum frame;
rubber skirt
· Finish color: Available in Silver, Blue or Black; custom colors available
upon request
· Starting: Electric key-start, Battery included
· Engine: Briggs & Stratton 4-stroke
· Fuel tank capacity: 5 liter (1.3 US gal)
· Fuel type: 85 Octane unleaded
· Approximate shipping weight: (TBC) 150kg (330 lb) incl. shipping package
· Approximate shipping package size (TBC): 800mm H x 1800mm W x 1800mm
L (32 ins H x 6 ft W x 6ft L)
· Assembly required: 1) Install/bolt handle, 2) Attach battery lead & fill
with electrolyte, 3) Add fuel