Out & About Here, there & everywhere
So you think the wings that currently adorn MotoGP bikes are a new fad? Reader Anthony Paech uncovered this gem that was originally published in the long-defunct English magazine Motor Cycling (“The Green ‘Un”). The date of publication was June 17, 1936 and the tongue-incheek story was re-published 20 years later as part of the 1956 Tourist Trophy special issue. The text that accompanies the illustration reads: From a technical point of view it is somewhat disappointing that very few fresh departures in streamlining are to be seen in the paddock this year. Perhaps the most interesting development is the aero-dynamic “Chekskid” device fitted to the Bolivian rider, Garcia’s, machine. This, of course, is merely an adaptation of well-known principles and consists of four lateral fins, a pair over each wheel, which are automatically elevated or depressed to increase or decrease the reaction between tyre and road surface. The operating mechanism is brought in to action so soon as the pressure on the tread of either tyre is lessened, and the device is adjusted to give the maximum road-holding effect under all conditions of braking and acceleration. It is stated that it is quite impossible for either wheel to lift or slide even when the machine is touring along at 130 m.p.h. in bottom gear and the throttle is suddenly opened.”
So there you have it. Ducati was not the first after all. Edgar Jessop would no doubt have had views as to the legality of the Chekskid in the 1936 Grand Prix season of which he and the Spagforth Spumante were an integral part.