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Velomobiles are enclosed, human-powered vehicles based on recumbent bicycles. They offer weather protection, increased aerodynamic efficiency, and collision protection. Velomobiles have drawbacks such as being heavier and more cumbersome than bicycles, lacking agility, and being difficult to secure in urban areas. They have cargo space and power assist options. Velomobiles date back to the early 20th century and are available for single or tandem riders. Test driving is recommended before purchasing.
A velomobile is a type of human-powered vehicle that is based on the design of the recumbent bicycle. Unlike bicycles, velomobiles are enclosed, which increases aerodynamic efficiency, provides weather protection for the driver, and protects him in the event of a collision. Various companies, mainly in Europe, make velomobiles, and it is possible to build one as well, for people who have manufacturing and mechanical skills. Numerous clubs and enthusiast organizations hold regular meetings and trips for their members, and some of these groups offer buying and building advice for people interested in velomobiles.
Typically, a velomobile has a recumbent trike as its base, covered with a cover that encloses the rider’s body. Some velomobiles are open at the top, allowing the rider’s head to protrude, while others are completely closed. The bike is integrated into the fairing, so the vehicle components are not separate, and the vehicle also has a gear system like a car or a bicycle. Many velomobiles also have cargo space, and some can be hitched to trailers.
There are some drawbacks to the velomobile design. These vehicles are heavier and more cumbersome than bicycles, lack the agility of the bicycle, and are more difficult to secure in urban areas. Velomobiles can also be dangerous on the open road, as they cannot be seen by cars high above the road, and it takes time to learn how to effectively and safely drive a velomobile.
The first velomobiles date back to the early 20th century. Some early designs also had engines, and some modern velomobiles have power assist options, which can be useful on long journeys and when the driver gets tired. The electric assistance in a velomobile could be compared to the electric assistances used with some bicycles; it cannot replace the cyclist’s pedaling, but it can make pedaling easier.
Many velomobiles are designed for a single rider, although tandem versions are available. Parents with small children can find or build velomobiles with car seats for the children to ride. People considering the purchase of a velomobile may want to see if they can borrow one to see how they like it, and should test drive the vehicle on available bike lanes and trails in their community to see how the vehicle handles. The trike design provides more stability, but can also make it difficult to ride rough and bumpy bike lanes.
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