Everything you need to know about Velomobiles

Over the past few years, bicycles and tricycles have gained immense popularity, with tricycles slowly catching up despite not being as widely embraced as bikes. Most people are familiar with both, but when it comes to velomobiles, things get a bit more niche. These unique vehicles, often referred to as bicycle-cars, are a fun and innovative take on traditional cycling. However, they're not covered by our insurance policies anymore. Velomobiles remain a fascinating and somewhat rare variation of bikes and trikes, appealing to those who love a mix of speed, efficiency, and style.

What are velomobiles?

Velomobiles, also known as velocars, are essentially a combination of a bicycle and a car. Typically designed with two or three wheels, though some variations exist with more, these vehicles allow riders to sit in either an upright or recumbent position. Like regular bicycles or tricycles, they rely solely on human power, meaning the rider provides the energy needed to move the vehicle forward. Unlike traditional bikes or trikes, velomobiles are enclosed, offering numerous advantages such as improved aerodynamics and protection against the elements or accidents. Their streamlined design enables them to reach speeds that are simply unattainable for standard bikes or trikes. Velomobiles are built for performance and efficiency, with some even breaking world records in races. Although most are designed for everyday street use, they still provide an exhilarating ride experience.

Who uses velomobiles?

Velomobiles are especially popular among recumbent riders, but they’re accessible to anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable ride. Whether you’re seeking entertainment, fitness, or even an eco-friendly alternative to a motor vehicle, there’s a velomobile out there for you. With so many customization options available, it’s easy to tailor a velomobile to your specific needs. While often seen as recreational vehicles, velomobiles are also frequently featured in efficiency studies and endurance races. In fact, electrically-assisted velomobiles equipped with solar panels have achieved efficiency levels up to 80 times higher than those of electric cars!

History of Velomobiles

Velomobiles have an intriguing history that dates back to the early 20th century. In the late 1920s, Charles Mochet crafted a "bike-car" for his son, sparking a passion that led to the development of various "bike-car" designs, later known as "velocars." His earliest publicly recognized design was in 1927. Over the years, Mochet experimented with one-, two-, and four-seat pedal-powered vehicles, eventually incorporating small engines. To create the enclosed body, he utilized a steel frame and thin plywood. Other early velomobile designs employed an airplane-inspired construction technique, known as "birdcage," involving sewing a fabric skin onto closed-spaced wires or tubes and applying a liquid that shrinks the fabric upon drying.

In the 1970s, the People Powered Vehicle emerged as a clever velomobile featuring a side-by-side tandem seat, steel subframe, and molded plastic body. While it provided protection, comfort, and ample space, it was bulky, heavy, and its ineffective brakes and pedals proved challenging to use. As the automotive industry evolved, consumer interest shifted toward motor vehicles, leaving the velomobile largely forgotten for a period.

These days, the velomobile market remains small but passionate, driven by enthusiasts who deeply appreciate these unique machines.

Notable Velomobiles on the Market

Since their inception, over 30 velomobile designs have been documented. Among these, a few standout models continue to dominate today's velomobile scene. Given their niche status, only a handful of manufacturers produce them. Fortunately, thanks to DIY kits, many passionate individuals can take on the challenge of designing and building their own velomobiles from the comfort of their homes.

Body-on-Frame

This velomobile design consists of two parts: an unfaired cycle and a separate body, often referred to as the "skin." These can be constructed using standard bikes or trikes, though custom cycles with specially designed fittings for mounting the body are more common. Special fittings enhance fit and durability, offer flexible configurations, and can reduce overall weight. Since the body doesn't need to be self-supporting or structural, a variety of materials can be used, from fabrics and plywood to fiberglass and carbon fiber. This design also allows for multiple bodies to be made for a single frame or for the cycle to be used without a body at all.

Alleweder

Another popular design is the Alleweder, also known as "monocoque" or "unit" construction. This method involves forming and riveting an aluminum sheet to create a single-piece body attached to the cycle. Originally used in airplane construction before 1920, this approach has been adapted for velomobiles since the 1970s. While aluminum is affordable and recyclable, constructing a velomobile this way is more expensive due to the numerous rivets and holes. Fortunately, kits are available to reduce costs and offer a fun DIY challenge.

Monocoque Shell Made of FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Plastic) Plus Sub-Frames of Welded Aluminum Tubes

Although the aluminum sheet monocoque is favored due to cost and recyclability, velomobiles can also be made using FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic). An FRP-based monocoque shell with fibers boasting a higher strength-to-weight ratio can reduce weight by several kilograms, albeit at a higher cost. This method allows for a wider range of body shapes and improved aerodynamics, making it superior to the birdcage or aluminum sheet methods. Despite challenges in separating and recycling FRP materials, many velomobile enthusiasts find the trade-off worthwhile for a lighter, faster, and more aerodynamic vehicle.

Power-Assisted

While velomobiles are typically human-powered, electric versions are also available for those seeking an extra boost. Various electric velomobile designs cater to enthusiasts' preferences. Some manufacturers are exploring ways to make these environmentally friendly vehicles even greener. For instance, the Northern Light 428, a Finnish velomobile described as resembling a human-powered rocket, features a hybrid system allowing riders to generate and store power on easier terrain for use on steeper climbs. Instead of directly linking the pedals to the drive wheel, the crankset activates a generator that charges a battery powering the rear hub motor, providing riders with extra assistance.

Features to Be Aware Of

Your velomobile's specifications will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and needs. Similar to any bike or trike, there are certain aspects to consider when searching for the perfect velomobile.

Wheel Configurations

Most velomobiles produced since 2017 are "tadpole" tricycles with two wheels in the front and one in the back, recommended for regular users seeking added stability, easier stops and starts, and better crosswind handling. This layout offers slightly more stability than the "one wheel in front, two in back" design. Four-wheeled velomobiles are rarer but provide increased stability and luggage capacity, though at the cost of additional weight and reduced aerodynamics. If speed is your priority, a two-wheel design might be preferable. Two-wheeled velomobiles often include a retractable parking wheel assembly to keep them upright when stationary or moving slowly.

Open Versus Closed

Your choice between an open or closed design depends on the weather and terrain you'll encounter. Velomobilists in rainy regions might prefer an enclosed design for added protection.

Braking System

Velomobiles use similar braking systems to other cycles, with drum brakes being more common than disc brakes due to ease of maintenance and quieter operation. Unlike standard bikes and trikes, velomobiles require brake lights when riding on roads shared with others.

Drivetrain, Shifters, and Gears

Velomobile drivetrains resemble those found on bikes, upright trikes, or recumbents, featuring a bottom bracket with at least one chainring and a rear derailleur. Many velomobiles also include idler pulleys and chain tubes along the drivetrain for added protection and functionality. One of the velomobile's defining features is its protected drivetrain, shielding components from weather and road debris that could lead to premature wear or damage.

Accessories

As a specialty product, velomobiles don't have as wide a range of accessories as more traditional cycles. However, many bike and trike accessories can also be used on velomobiles.

Helmet

While velomobiles offer more protection than open cycles, wearing a helmet is still essential. Even the most cautious riders cannot account for the inattentiveness of others. When shopping for a helmet, determine your budget, identify reputable options within that range, and consider how you'll use it while riding. If you wear glasses, ensure they don't interfere with strap placement or comfort. A helmet should feel snug but not tight, not shift when shaking your head, and be comfortable overall. Test the chinstrap, as it often causes discomfort. Avoid wearing earbuds while riding, as it reduces your ability to hear others on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. For guidance on choosing the right helmet, check out our selection guide.

Lock

After a helmet, a reliable lock is the next most important accessory. While velomobiles are bulky and difficult to steal or resell, their uniqueness and high perceived value attract thieves. To minimize the risk of theft, always secure your velomobile when not in use. Due to their unusual shape and size, traditional U-locks aren't practical. Luckily, velomobiles often come with cargo storage, making it easy to keep a long-chain lock on hand to secure the vehicle to an immovable object like a bike rack.

Bell or Horn

Since you'll likely share your riding space with others, it's crucial to have a way to signal your presence. A bell or horn is an effective way to communicate with others on the road.

Lights

Even though velomobiles have a brake light system, it's always recommended to ride with fully charged bike lights, even during daylight hours. A 2004-2005 study found that cyclists using front and rear lights during the day experienced a 19% reduction in accidents compared to those without lights. Weather conditions can change, and unexpected delays can occur, so having lights ensures visibility regardless of circumstances. Front and rear lights are ideal to make yourself visible from all angles. The goal is to protect yourself and others by maximizing visibility.

Water Bottle Holder(s)

Given their enclosed design, velomobile interiors can get quite warm, even on mild days. For rides longer than a casual neighborhood tour, bring water and stay hydrated.

Phone Mount

For those relying on GPS navigation, a phone mount is the safest option. Some frame bags even combine a water bottle holder and phone storage in one convenient package.

Mirrors

Though classified as cycles, velomobiles should follow the same road rules as motor vehicles. Using mirrors can make the difference between a near miss and a preventable accident. Mirrors are essential for urban or crowded neighborhood riding, providing better awareness and visibility on the road.

Where to Ride

In most countries, including the US, velomobiles are considered bicycles and are allowed wherever regular and electric bikes are permitted, including bike lanes, shared paths, and city roads. Although some velomobiles are faster than traditional bikes, they're not allowed on highways. When sharing roads with cars, safety is paramount: velomobiles are low-profile and small, making them easily overlooked by drivers. Consider adding daytime running lights and a safety flag to your vehicle. If you have access to shared paths, be mindful of your velomobile's dimensions while passing other cyclists, pedestrians, or executing emergency maneuvers.

Protecting Your Velomobile

Velomobiles are rare and valuable, so if you decide to invest in one, it's vital to protect it to the best of your ability. Always secure your velomobile properly when not in use. Even if your garage is locked, it's never safe to assume that storing your vehicle alone is sufficient protection. Use a sturdy U-lock to secure it to an immovable object, even inside the garage.