Wheeled Vehicle B

[GoofyFoofer]

Is the fishing pole idea better than a rubber band for the launching mechanisim?

Not necessarily, although it can usually be, as elastics aren't as consistent
(they may become looser, or new ones are too tight, etc.).

[Mister O]

I'm not fond of the flexible rod because they pull in an arc whereas bands (or tubing in my teams' case) have a linear pull.

[goodcheer]

In the rules is states that the track will be accommodated for both left and right turning vehicles. However, it never states how far to a side the track will be. Would it be safe to assume that a track width of say 2 meters on either side of the can is reasonable?

How should we try to get the steering? Can we just make a really thin vehicle that avoids the can altogether?

2 meters on both sides might be more than is provided. Might be safer to allow 1 meter on each side. Official website has a diagram of the track.

Instead of making the vehicle travel in a straight line, you can design it to travel in a curve by modifying the front axle. You would aim the vehicle to miss the can and then curve back to the finish point.

[peteb]

I'm assuming that parts of the vehicle can extend behind the back wheels. It specifically mentions that nothing can extend out the front, and their is no height restriction.

[retired1]

Reread 3.e. It says that nothing except the dowel attachment of not more than 2 cm can be in front of the car and that includes the wheels.
The front of the car can overhang the wheels by any amount that is enough to make the dowel holder the furthest forward thing.

[handygirl]

Are you able to use a mouse trap, because the rules state non-metalic?

[Xystus]

Are you able to use a mouse trap, because the rules state non-metalic?

If the mousetrap is made out of any metal then no because non-metallic means something that lacks metallic attributes.

[handygirl]

The mousetrap is made out of wood, but it has a metal spring. Do you think that matters?

[retired1]

Sorry, not legal. Besides, it is not strong enough to get the distance and speed that you need.
Look at surgical tubing. Multiple rubber bands- the long ones can be ganged together and are a lot cheaper.

[seadog]

How do you make the vehicle turn around the can? I would appreciate any suggestions.
Thanks!