Ahhhh! I see now. Thanks for the explanation. Obviously I was still thinking about the top.
For the others, most all convertible tops fold to meet the windshield and latch in front. I don't see hinging the rear as being any issue at all. It is also like 99% of all production vehicles' hoods too. With hinging at the roll bar, the windshield doesn't have to bear any stresses from the hinging or spring loads required to raise and hold it up. Just like on most production cars, I do have 2 latches, one on either side mounted to the stanchions, that secure it from unexpected opening at speed. Plus, the gas strut is balanced in the closed position when at rest. A light lift of 6-12 inches and the top then opens by itself and gently reaches its open position. Closing it does not require pull straps. I lightly pull on the (centered) gas strut and a little along the edge, both easily reached from the seat-belted position. Once down, it stays down by itself and my hands are then free to secure the 2 front latches.
But each to their own. If there was only one way to do it, all Locost's would be powered with the same engine and look the same.
Carguy, I hadn't thought about snapping a canvas top to the rollbar. Hmmmm........Do you recall any difference in the wind pattern with the canvas up or down?
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Chuck.
“Any suspension will work if you don’t let it.” - Colin Chapman
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