Wheels do look a lot better. Glad you get to work on this more...It deserves it. Pretty cool concept.
Only thing that bothers me is the rocket propulsion. You're gonna roast the driver/passenger. Considering you are doing a chariot type vehicle check out episode 1...I have nothing but disdain for that movie but the pod's could have some good reference for you.If you want jet propulsion maybe move the bikes back and out. Or bolt the rockets on the outside near the rear axle.
I used your image to make an example.

Ofcourse mirror the rocket to the other side...
Hope this helps.