[Paradox1350]

Something much simpler and lighter that a lot of teams have been using: pool hose. You can get it at any Home Depot, Lowe's, or other hardware stores. It's cheap, simple to put on, and lightweight. Pool hose is, I guess you could call it, threaded. You know, the hard plastic hose that is threaded and has, I'd say, 4 threads per inch? Maybe less? It has a diameter of about 2 inches, I think? IT's the type of hose that you would use for a pool cleaner-vaccuum -thing, or for a septic tank (we actaully used septic-tank hose). Basically, you cut a length that is enough to cover the entire circumferance of the wheel, then cut a slit down the entire length (or cut a slice out. We did the slit, but two even cuts so that you take out a slice is probably better) and then ziptie it into place over the tire. (If you can find pictures of #69 Team Hyper's bot, they use the stuff on their wheels. We actually found out about it from them and #467 (Duct Tape Bandits) up at a scrimage the Saturday before ship)

Why does it work?

The threads are perpendicular to the side of the bot. In forward motion, they grip. The threads grip the ground. HOWEVER, side to side, the pool hose slips. So forward, you will have a lot of traction, but when turning, you will have very little. It solves the bouncing.

We use the 12 inch pneumatic wheels in the kit. We put the pool hose on the front tires, and left the back bare, and have not had a traction problem since. It was simple, lightweight, effective, and foolproof. I HIGHLY reccomend it. If you have any further questions, feel free to PM me.