Greg with his machines
The WITHIN prototype is a proof-of-concept boat based on a Nimbus Hyak tandem kayak (22 feet long by 28 inches wide). It enabled rapid development of the other technologies required to make WiTHiN viable.
The kayak deck was removed and a custom full deck was fabricated and permanently bonded to the kayak hull. The new aerodynamic top deck features a wrap around window and hatch on the top for entry/exit. The boat is propelled by a pedal-power chain drive mated to a right-angle gearbox spinning a 2-blade propeller. Stability is achieved through the weighted, narrow keel below the propeller.
Three compartments are watertight: the cockpit, the rear cabin, and the front supplies storage area. Solid buoyancy compartments in the bow and stern ensure the WiTHiN prototype cannot sink. Air trapped in one or more of these three compartments, along with the ballast and the keel will ensure that Within turns upright if capsized. At 150 watts of input power, pedaling at 80 rpm, the WiTHiN prototype speed is about 7 to 8 kph.
In January of 2008 Greg took the prototype to Vancouver Island, near the surfing resort of Tofino on Canada’s west coast, for sea trials. WiTHiN was found to be very wobbly and she bobbed around excessively. The windshield collected water and was difficult to see through. Greg also tried sleeping over night in the sleeping cabin, but found it very cramped and uncomfortable.
In April of 2008, WiTHiN test boat was taken back to Tofino to test a 100 lb keel, with hopes it would resolve the stability issue. The keel worked well and the sea trials were successful. Greg pedaled WiTHiN 20 km due west into the Pacific ocean. The sea state was very rough with 5 to 6 meters (15 to 18 feet) swells, yet WiTHiN was very stable considering the conditions.
Heading out to sea
Sea trials
Making progress
Sea trials
18 ft swells
WiTHiN about to drop into another swell
WiTHiN sea trials from Greg Kolodziejzyk on Vimeo.
Sponsor a mile for $50 and every mile that Greg pedals WiTHiN across the Pacific ocean, Kimberlee’s Bikes for Kids charity will donate one bicycle to a deserving child who can't afford one.
If Greg makes it to Hawaii he will have travelled 3000 miles and with your help, that will mean 3000 bikes for 3000 kids!
When you click a Donate Now button you will be taken to the Kimberlee's Bikes for Kids Paypal page where you can securely complete your transaction. You can use PayPal or any major credit card.