LOW-TECH MAGAZINE: The velomobile: high-tech bike or low-tech car?

LOW-TECH MAGAZINE: The velomobile: high-tech bike or low-tech car?:

'Nevertheless, thanks to the recumbent position, the minimal weight and the outstanding aerodynamics, pedalling a "velomobile" requires three to four times less energy than pedalling a normal bicycle.

This higher energy efficiency can be converted felt in terms of comfort, but can also be utilised to attain higher speeds and longer distances - regular cyclists can easily maintain a cruising speed of 40 km/h (25 mph) or more. The velomobile thus becomes an excellent alternative to the automobile for medium distances, especially in bad weather.'



I could believe this but a factor of 4 sounds quite impressive. I know the HPV competition on Battle Mountain use velomobiles and get in to the 70mph region so I guess it's not out of the question. The principle reason against them is the extra weight stopping/starting ( in traffic). If true a dedicated network could be vital to run over long distances.


Good artical worth a read.