Introduction
The first thought that races through your mind when you see the images of the new Megelli bikes is the sheer stunning looks, which are beautifully crafted into a full size bikes. Three models, 125M (Motard), 125S (Naked) & 125R (Sports Racer) share a 125cc (with a 50cc version for the 16 year old market on its way) SYM engine – but more spec later. One of the company statements from their, what is actually a flash brochure is ‘Looks Do What They Can, Beauty Does What It Must’ which I can only assume translates into ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous’.....
Once you detract your mind from the machines themselves, the next thought through my grey matter is Who is Megelli? From reading the blurb and talking to the team behind the new brand, we can establish a few facts: - Megelli is a completely new brand created by a UK company, SLDUK, who have been predominantly in off road products - sole importers of, originally Aeon ATV’s Blata Mini bikes and Thumpstar Pit bikes,
Megelli is designed and engineered in Europe, using the wealth of experience of a leading UK design house for the design, ergonomics, body panel engineering and production data and a be-spoke engineering company for the chassis development and engineering, FEA and production for manufacture Their expertise in the motorcycle industry clearly stands out in all of the models. It was emphasised that the bikes have been created from the ground up with a mentality of achieving a brand with a ‘Must Have’ factor combined with Quality, Reliability and Value.
VIRTUAL DESIGN This fast track process cuts the traditional development time by at least a third and allows simultaneous engineering activities to take place far sooner in the programme, so the time to market is significantly reduced.
At the heart of the process is the CAD model data which is developed soon after initial styling drawings and packaging studies have been signed off. The designers and engineers work together to create ‘tool ready’ 3D ‘A surface’ data in a virtual CAD environment prior to any physical model making. But unlike some processes this data is ‘actual’ rather than approximate having been built to accommodate the required packaging, ergonomics and dynamic specification from the very start. This master data is then used to cut physical surfaces or build rapid prototype parts for verification and assessment of the design on a physical prototype.
Any minor modifications are subsequently done entirely in CAD prior to preparation of data for B surface and subsequent tool making. This process was applied to all aspects of the new motorcycles including the chassis and motorcycle parts, suspension systems, wheels, forks and sundries.
All key elements of the bike, including the trellis main frame, sub-frame, forged outriggers and even the wheels, are bespoke to the range and have been subjected to the process of Finite Element Analysis (FEA), checking for strength, ensuring long term durability, stability and ride ability. The last in a series of checks, is the completion of a 50,000 miles (80,000km) PAVE test which again bolsters your confidence in the reliability of these bikes.
Production facilities are set up in China with Taiwanese and European management to oversee the quality and finish of the final article. With a heavy investment made on design and engineering, the same approach was required in production. 75% of all components are Taiwanese manufactured and raw materials purchased are to Western standards to ensure the quality box remains ticked. The power unit is purchased from SYM Taiwan which includes a ceramic coating cylinder – not a cheap option, but worth every one of your hard earned Euros! Developing a genuine 11hp, this unit has a proven track record and creates a respectful power to weight ratio for a lively ride.
Megelli Facts;
Megelli motorcycles have been created from the ground up
New, VIRTUAL DESIGN technology has been utilised, reducing the time scale from initial sketches to prototype bikes
Megelli has been created within 3 years
Original sketches were produced in July ‘05. Production samples produced in September ‘07
All body panel design, ergonomics, engineering and production data produced by a leading UK design house.
All chassis engineering, FEA, PAVE testing and production for manufacture produced by an established UK engineering company with motorcycle experience.
75% of all components are sourced in Taiwan. Quality materials and components are key to longevity.
Production facilities in China under Taiwanese and European management
Engine, manufactured by SYM, Taiwan, has a ceramic cylinder coating, delivering 11hp
50cc version due Spring ‘08
Key structural components, including main frame, sub-frame, swing arm, out-riggers and wheel have been subjected to F.E.A. (Finite Element Analysis) ensuring long term performance and durability
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