It looks like the $1000 mark has been cracked... OK its in US$ but the Oz$ isn't much different at the moment.



The Land Sailor.
This is the three-wheeled craft that harnesses the wind's power for speeds up to 25 mph, enabling rank amateurs to sail effortlessly across any open, flat surface without the need for prior sailing experience. The craft quickly breaks down into four 4' long bags that easily fit into a car's trunk for easy transport. The 35 1/2' sq. sail is made of Dacron--the same material used by nautical vessels--slips over the mast, attaching to the boom for quick, easy set up. The sail is reinforced with two fiberglass battens that keep it taut during gusts for consistent, powered gliding. Equipped with three corrosion-resistant wheels with nylon rims and stainless steel bearings, your feet steer the craft by guiding the 12" front wheel, keeping your hands free to manage the sail and operate the hand brake. The molded ABS/polyurethane plastic body and seat are secured to the powder-coated steel frame with sturdy clevis pins; includes safety harness. The 20" rear wheels are cambered for stability. Braking is provided by a hand lever that provides even stops with no tipping. Supports riders up to 225 lbs. Ages 12 and up. 59" L x 66" W x 13' 8" H. (54 lbs.)


http://www.hammacher.com/publish/11444.asp?cm_mmc=CJ-_-2679371-_-3437260-_-Guaranteed+for+Life+at+Hammacher+Schlemmer

Fascinating that they have managed to get away with a 16" wheels at the back, every trial that Ive done with them , even with fibreglass ones is that the rims flex and the tyres roll off.
wonder if they are value for money

Hello, first time post. Chinese are building a blo-kart knock off priced at $800-1100 U.S dollars. Found at www.alibaba.com.

It seems to me that there will probably be a craize time

a period where these things will be sold everywhere and most

young would find it affordable especially 1 to a family, then within

a couple of years it will simmer down like everything else. ninjas

guns, canoes, bikes, kites, metal detectors, horses, big dogs,

camping gear, tinnys, etc. Hundreds of these objects litter yards

and sheds, unwanted and unloved. Our collective love with tinkering

sail powered projects will never die ....with us

If you go to http://www.trikebuggy.com/windchaser/step1.htm
and click on "NEXT >>" you see the assembly of the yacht and all the detail in close up.
Its interesting to see they use off the shelf bicycle parts, one way to keep the cost down.

Gizmo said...

If you go to http://www.trikebuggy.com/windchaser/step1.htm
and click on "NEXT >>" you see the assembly of the yacht and all the detail in close up.
Its interesting to see they use off the shelf bicycle parts, one way to keep the cost down.

The "Windchaser" looks to have been upgraded since I last looked at them. That would indicate they have been selling quite a few. Their market niche appears to be for children's yachts.

Of note is the set of the rear crossmember with a vertical diagonal. I think it might be stronger that way. Gizmo???

I would love to get hold of one of their seat mouldings. It looks like injection moulded plastic.