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V-Max Full Race Buggy (Libre)

Libre V-Max Full Race

Specifications
Name:
Manufacturer:
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Libre V-Max
Libre

After 2 weeks of use (over 400 miles), I thought that I would share my new found enjoyment of the "Libre V-Max Full Race" buggy. The name says exactly what it is, a full grown racing machine.

I first saw one on Borkum in September at the European Championships, I was very impressed and after a week of racing on Euro Beaches in My small (normal size) Predator Buggy, being out classed by the bigger, heavier buggies that the majority of people were using, I was determined to own one. Upon my return I was straight in touch with Libre who said that they would get one in the Post from Germany that day, and that I could try it out for a while. 

"Impressed" well that is a bit of an understatement, I have had a new lease of life injected in to my Obsession for Kite Traction. Libre (Hans & Gertie Hauser) have pretty much thought of everything whilst designing the "Full Race", the foot rests are adjustable into 4 different positions (up, down, forward or towards the pilot). The seat (more like a chair) is by far the most comfortable that I have ever buggied in, this is also fully adjustable in all directions. The thing that really rounds the buggy off is the Fully adjustable Camber & Toe in/out. This together with the overall size and weight of the "Full Race" is what really makes the difference whilst traveling at speed, in fact traveling, full stop.

My normal test in any buggy is first a 360 followed by an Axle Stand, then just give it hell !!!!! The 360 was not a problem surprisingly, considering the increase in size from my Predator Buggy with a standard 1m axle (which freestyles like a thing possessed) , it seemed to slide round very controllably with no problem at all, in fact, it felt "very" safe indeed. The high (padded) side rails & seat really support you well, and install you with confidence. Those dodgy bits of the beach where people have been digging for worms or kids trying to bury their father in the sand the previous day (the cause of many a wipe-out), are know much less a concern, and we all know how quickly they suddenly appear in your path (Too Soon !!)

As for the axle stand, well, this buggy has a 1.35m axle, on the end of the axle is the Camber adjustment in total it is about 1.5m wide...I have to say that it don't wanna do it ! This is the hardest buggy to get on 2 wheels that I have ever tried, but with allot of effort it will eventually go. This buggy wants to stay reassuringly on the ground. I have given it hell ever since, and will continue to do so as "The Full Race ......LOVES IT !!........And does it so well.

The whole Libre Buggy experience is certainly one to recommend, the handling inspires you to buggy from "Dawn till Dusk" in the knowledge that you will drive home in high spirit, & in one piece, whatever the weather.

"Bolt on Goodies": How does "Full Suspension" and a choice of wheels in various shapes and size's sound, "I think it's time for a Van !!!!! ". Since I took delivery from Libre (via "Sky Kites" Tel UK 0181-302-8203) I have caused a bit of a stir on the local Beaches in Kent & last week at "The Last Gasp". I have never seen so many grown ups standing in a line shouting "me next" (contrary to rumours). 

The beaches of Kent have certainly undergone a German Invasion since their introduction into the UK 2 weeks ago, and I am sure that they will be warmly welcomed by many more pilots here in the UK.
WARNING : If you get one, you will have to share it with everyone in the queue. 

 

 

Buggy Review by Mark Kingshott
October 1999

 

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