Antares To Offer Trike Floats

As previously noted in previous stories, the Antares U.S. Corporation recently opened an American division in the wilds of Anchorage, Alaska (God's country...). The relationship between Antares and Arctic Sparrow Aircraft Inc., as well as the unlimited flying conditions up North, precipitated this situation... though it hasn't been lost on those of us down in the weeds here in the South that the rugged mountains, rivers, lakes and winter flying opportunities of Alaska seem to be the perfect place to conduct "research and development" (or more honestly... goofing around).

Alaska has offered Antares a tough and uncompromising environment for the testing of a new line of Antares floats. Recent upgrades to the mounting brackets have allowed them to also be installed on AirBorne Edge trikes, which require NO modifications in order get everything mounted properly. With the new system, a pilot can go from wheels to floats in approximately 20 minutes... and without the need to remove the AirBorne Edge fairing (nor does it require the cutting or removal of the fairing  to accomplish the initial installation). A unique front yoke bushing mounts (in minutes!) directly to the base tube by using existing attachment holes. Specially designed (and simple) brackets fix the rear suspension in place to remove unwanted flexibility that is not required for float operation. The floats are attached to the mounting brackets with rubber bushings, in order to reduce stress to the floats, and to allow for many years of continuous operations without beating the airframe to death. 

Antares floats use marine-grade plywood, fiberglass, and hi-tech fabrication methods so that this system can withstand harsh use. The use of only a single water rudder simplifies operations immensely but still provides for floats that handle well in the water, no matter which way you're trying to turn. Best of all; the rugged nature of the Antares float system means that you can walk on them, as needed, when the trike is either in the water or on land.

A supplied spray shield mounts between the floats and reduces water spray to the pilot (eliminating the well-known "damp-drawers" syndrome) and prop. The spray shield is also fitted with special holders for carrying a paddle and fishing poles.

Recent test flights on numerous lakes and rivers have proven this system out well on both Antares and AirBorne trikes--despite the fact that some of the testing that was conducted, occurred during "very turbulent" weather/water conditions. 

The Antares floatation system utilizes stainless steel, titanium, and 6065 aluminum construction in all critical mounting and bracket hardware. Research and development, underway right now, will eventually allow for the adaptation of this system to virtually all brands of popular trikes.

FMI: www.antares-us.com