Introduction
This guide will walk you through the process of building a solo wheel (solowheel) and a multi-functional hiking pole for outdoor travel. The solowheel is designed to carry a significant amount of gear while reducing the impact of walking on rough terrain. The hiking pole serves multiple purposes, including support during hikes and as a central pole for a tent.
Solo Wheel Construction
Concept
The solo wheel is designed to be a portable and efficient way to carry gear while traveling. It consists of a 14″ plastic air-tube wheel from a children’s bicycle, a strong belt over the hips, and hinges on each side for attaching hands. This setup allows for easy clipping in and out and reduces bouncing while carrying a load.
Materials
- 14″ plastic air-tube wheel from a children’s bicycle
- Strong belt for attaching to the hips
- Hinges for attaching hands
- 60 liters of equipment storage capacity
- 10 liters of water storage capacity
- Total load capacity of 26 kg
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wheel Selection: Choose a 14″ plastic air-tube wheel from a children’s bicycle. This size is ideal for reducing bouncing while carrying a load.
- Belt Construction: Create a strong belt that can be attached securely over the hips. Ensure it is comfortable and adjustable to fit different body sizes.
- Hinge Attachment: Attach hinges on each side of the belt for attaching hands. This allows for easy clipping in and out of the setup.
- Load Capacity: The solowheel can carry up to 60 liters of equipment and 10 liters of water, with a total load of 26 kg for a 6-day trip.
- Rain Cover: Design a rain cover with hook points using a gum-rope system. This cover protects the gear from rain and can be easily attached and removed.
Hiking Pole Construction
Concept
The hiking pole is made from a bamboo stick treated with a burner to create a carbon mosaic. It is painted red for visibility and has a walnut handle for comfort. The pole also serves as the central pole in a KP tent.
Materials
- Bamboo stick
- Burner for creating a carbon mosaic
- Walnut handle
- Sponge for comfort
- PDF sketch for reference
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bamboo Selection: Choose a bamboo stick that is straight and free of knots. This ensures stability and strength.
- Carbon Mosaic: Use a burner to create a carbon mosaic on the bamboo stick. This process strengthens the pole and adds a unique aesthetic.
- Handle Attachment: Attach a walnut handle to the pole for comfort. Ensure it is securely fastened to prevent slipping.
- Sponge Addition: Add a sponge to the handle for additional comfort during use.
- KP Tent Integration: The hiking pole can also serve as the central pole in a KP tent. Refer to the provided PDF sketch for integration details.
Common Mistakes
- Using a wheel that is too large or too small for the intended load.
- Not securing the belt and hinges properly, leading to discomfort or instability.
- Failing to treat the bamboo stick with a burner, resulting in a weaker pole.
- Not attaching the walnut handle securely, causing it to slip during use.
Practical Tips
- Test the solowheel and hiking pole with a lighter load before embarking on a full trip.
- Regularly check the condition of the belt, hinges, and rain cover to ensure they are in good working order.
- Use the hiking pole as a support during steep or uneven terrain to prevent injury.
- Ensure the KP tent is set up correctly using the hiking pole as the central support.
Getting Started
Before beginning construction, gather all necessary materials and tools. Review the step-by-step instructions and any provided sketches to understand the process thoroughly. Start with the solo wheel construction, followed by the hiking pole. Test both items thoroughly before using them on a trip.