Velomobile Handling

Few people have written about their experience with more than two or three different velomobiles, so it is currently impossible to complete this table.   We will add more information if it becomes available.  Read Tony Eastwood's 5-velomobile report for comparisons of the Quest, Mango, Versatile, WAW, and Cab-Bike (though all of these velomobiles have been updated since he tested them).   

For racing, it may not be important to have a small turning circle and a reverse gear, but these things are very useful for touring and commuting.  To use the "Fred Flintstone" reverse gear, the rider puts his or her feet through the holes below the pedals and "walks" the velomobile backward. Thanks to Elmi from the German velomobile forum for pointing out that you can have the WAW either way, with holes for reverse gear or with a solid floor for better aerodynamics.

Light-weight vehicles are at risk of blowing off the road if the surface is wet or icy.  Lower profiles protect somewhat against this.  

Many people have rolled their new velomobiles on their first ride.  Three-wheeled HPV's have some unexpected responses to braking and turning at high speeds.  Riders should accustom themselves cautiously and gradually to their velomobiles' handling characteristics.    

updated 4 February 2007