What is a Similaria?

Similaria is a word I made up to describe a motorcycle or RC airplane I have built.

A similaria motorcycle will have the similar look of an old original machine, but one made more practical and functional for riding, lots of riding.  These motorcycles are at the intersection of form and function.  I think antique motorcycles have an elegant look of gracefulness and simplicity, where nothing is hidden and every part you see has a function.  The eye picks up the distinctive contrasting colors of brass, copper, aluminum, and nickel.  My enjoyment comes from designing and figuring out how to fabricate every detailed part and endlessly filing and sanding its final finish regardless of its size.  My goal is to make motorcycle similarias with that old look, that are comfortable to ride, capable of running continuously at 70 MPH, with good brakes, good lighting, enough electrical power to use heated clothing, and “good to go” for 20,000 miles.

A similaria RC airplane is also one that has a similar look of a certain airplane, but it has been modified to make it easier to build or sometimes I just want to add or change something to make it more appealing to my eye.  I also never hesitate to make modifications to make the model a better flyer.  Again, these RC airplanes are at the intersection of form and function.