The Auto Rickshaw
What do I need to know about an auto rickshaw?
Think of it as a covered bicycle with a fuel-efficient lawn mower engine.
Auto rickshaws, also known as tuk tuks, are common vehicles in India and several other countries. Though variable in size, the rickshaws used for the Rickshaw Challenge will seat up to 3 people (1 driver in the front seat and 2 passengers in the back). Though the design of the rickshaw cannot guarantee complete safety and security, the low top speed of the vehicle contributes to major accident prevention.
It is common for these 3-wheeled vehicles to break down, especially older models. They are however, easy to repair and as locals drive them throughout India, there is no short supply of repair shops or autorickshaw mechanics.
For the most part, if your rickshaw breaks down during the course of the event, you’ll be able to fix the problem yourself, and you will be trained on the finer points of the rickshaw. Here are some average numbers:
Think of it as a covered bicycle with a fuel-efficient lawn mower engine.
Auto rickshaws, also known as tuk tuks, are common vehicles in India and several other countries. Though variable in size, the rickshaws used for the Rickshaw Challenge will seat up to 3 people (1 driver in the front seat and 2 passengers in the back). Though the design of the rickshaw cannot guarantee complete safety and security, the low top speed of the vehicle contributes to major accident prevention.
It is common for these 3-wheeled vehicles to break down, especially older models. They are however, easy to repair and as locals drive them throughout India, there is no short supply of repair shops or autorickshaw mechanics.
For the most part, if your rickshaw breaks down during the course of the event, you’ll be able to fix the problem yourself, and you will be trained on the finer points of the rickshaw. Here are some average numbers:
- Gross vehicle weight: 610 kilograms (1340 pounds)
- Overall length: 2625 mm (103.34 in)
- Overall width: 1300 mm (51 in)
- Overall height: 1710 mm (67.3 in)
- Wheel base: 2000 mm (78.74 in)
- Engine: Single Cylinder, Two stroke forced air cooled
- Displacement: 145.45 cc
- Max. Net Power: 7.00 HP @ 5000 rpm
- Starting System: Kick start
- Transmission: 4 forward and 1 reverse
- Brakes: Front and rear hydraulic break system
- Fuel tank capacity: 8 liters (2 gal) including 1.4 liters reserve
- Kerb weight: 272 kg (598 pounds)
- Mileage within a city: 18 to 20 km/liter (45 mpg)
- Mileage on the highway: 25 km/liter (60 mpg)
- Average cruising speed: 50 to 60 kmh (35 mph)
- Maximum speed: 80 kmh (50 mph)
- Gas tank travel distance: 145 km to 190 km (90 mi to 120 mi)
- Oil must be added to every liter at 20 to 50 ml/liter (2.5 oz. – 6.4 oz./ gal)
